It can take anything from a few hours to several days to receive COVID-19 test results. The length of time will vary depending on the type of test and where it took place.
The novel coronavirus, known as SARS-CoV-2, is very contagious. Some people who catch SARS-CoV-2 develop coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which affects the respiratory system.
Most people who contract the virus will experience mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. However, some people will develop severe COVID-19, which can sometimes be fatal. Older people and those with underlying health conditions are at the highest risk.
How long it takes to get the results of a COVID-19 test varies. In most cases, it takes a few days to a week.
The time frame can depend on the state and area in which a person undergoes testing. The county of Los Angeles aim to get the results to people within 3–5 days. The Virginia Department of Health have said that it will take a few days, and the Minnesota Department of Health have said several days.
The best way to find out how long it will take in any particular area is to go to the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) website and look at the “search by state” option. People can then follow the links to see the local COVID-19 testing policy, which will include the length of time they can expect to wait for the results.
If someone is in the hospital with suspected COVID-19, doctors will ask for a point of care (POC) test, which can deliver results within minutes. However, POC testing for COVID-19 may not detect all active infections and can deliver false negatives, making the results unreliable.
To test for SARS-CoV-2, scientists need a sample of the mucus from the inside of a person’s nose. Sometimes, a healthcare professional will collect the sample. In other cases, the person will collect the sample themselves.
The CDC have published instructions for people who need to collect the sample themselves.
According to their guidance, a person should follow these steps:
- Open the kit and read the instructions.
- Wash the hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Take the swab from the container without touching the soft end.
- Tilt the head back.
- Push the swab gently about 1–1.5 inches into the nostril or until it can go no further.
- Twist the swab slowly for 15 seconds, rubbing it on the inside of the nostril.
- Remove the swab.
- Using the same swab, repeat the process in the other nostril.
- Put the swab into the sterile tube.
- Snap the end of the swab at the line, then put the cap on the tube.
- Wash the hands again.
Testing is available free of charge at health centers and community testing sites. Some pharmacies are also offering SARS-CoV-2 tests, including:
- CVS Health
- Kroger
- Rite Aid
- Walgreens
To find a local testing facility, people can go to the HSS website and use the search function.
The length of time it takes to receive COVID-19 test results varies across the U.S. On average, it tends to take between a few days and a week.
If someone has a COVID-19 test in the hospital, they will usually get the result the same day.
Anyone in the U.S. who has symptoms of COVID-19 or has been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 should get a test.
Tests are available for free from health centers, community testing sites, and some pharmacies.
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September 08, 2020 at 08:37PM
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