When should you get tested for COVID-19 after the holidays?
As the holidays come to a close, some may want to or need to get a COVID-19 test.
When should you get a COVID test?
According to the CDC, COVID symptoms will appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.
Where can you get a COVID test?
At-home test kits are sold out, or in limited supply, across Central Iowa. A rapid at-home test can provide results in as little as 15 minutes. A negative at-home test means you may not have the virus, but the CDC suggests taking another test 24 hours later to increase the confidence you are not infected.
Other pharmacies and locations offer testing. You can get a test through IDPH through Test Iowa, other testing locations can be found here.
Someone at my holiday party tested positive, should I get tested?
People who are fully vaccinated should be tested 5-7 days after their last exposure, according to the CDC. People who are not vaccinated should get tested immediately after finding out they were exposed. They should get tested again 5-7 days after their last exposure, or immediately if symptoms develop.
I tested positive, now what?
If you have a positive viral test, CDC suggests you isolate for at least five days, which was shortened late Monday.
What else should I know?
The CDC suggests everyone, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask inside an indoor public place. Doctors and the CDC agree, the best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 is to get vaccinated.
