Need a COVID-19 Test?
Reasons to Get Tested
• If you have COVID-19 symptoms
• At least 5 days after known or suspected close contact to COVID-19
• Before and after travel
• For screening (schools, workplaces, congregate settings, etc.)
• When asked by a healthcare professional or public health official
COVID-19 Testing?
Testing plays a key role in our efforts to contain and mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic by identifying infected individuals to help prevent further person-to-person transmission of COVID-19. Testing is the only way we can confirm if you have COVID-19. Knowing you're infected is important to protect your family and the people you encounter.
Contact us for advice about testing if you: • think you may have COVID-19 • have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19
Difference between the PCR and antigen tests for COVID-19
There are two types of tests for COVID-19: the PCR test and the antigen test.
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This tests for the presence of the actual virus’s genetic material or its fragments as it breaks down. PCR is the most reliable and accurate test for detecting active infection. PCR tests typically take hours to perform, but some are faster.
- Antigen test: This detects bits of proteins on the surface of the virus called antigens. Antigen tests typically take only 15 to 30 minutes. Rapid antigen tests are most accurate when used within a few days of the start of your symptoms, which is when the largest amount of virus is present in your body.
Testing helps reduce the spread of the virus. When someone tests positive for COVID-19, they can be isolated at home or, if needed, in a hospital.
Testing is a key tool to:
- find and isolate people who have COVID-19, to prevent the spread to others and to prevent outbreaks
- follow up with close contacts of cases so that they can self-isolate, monitor for symptoms and get tested
- know how many people are infected, which helps us understand the level of risk in a community
- inform the public health actions that are put in place
- how much the virus may be circulating in our communities
Testing tells us:
- who has the infection
- where in our communities the virus is spreading
Until you get through this, count on our support
In difficult times, you need to be able to turn to experts who understand and can help strengthen your mental well-being. We’re here for you.