The length of time you will test positive for COVID-19 depends on the type of test and individual factors such as your immune response and severity of illness.
- Rapid antigen tests: Most people stop testing positive within about 10 days after symptom onset or a positive test. Some may test positive for up to 14 days, but this is less common
- PCR (NAAT) tests: These tests can detect viral genetic material for a longer period, sometimes up to 90 days after infection, even when you are no longer contagious. This is because PCR tests are very sensitive and can detect non-infectious viral fragments
- Infectiousness vs. test positivity: Testing positive does not always mean you are still contagious. People are generally considered infectious starting 2 days before symptoms and up to 7 days after symptom onset, with symptoms improving and no fever for at least 24 hours
. However, some individuals, especially immunocompromised or with severe illness, may shed virus longer and test positive beyond 10 days
- Reinfection and prolonged positivity: It is possible to test positive again within 90 days due to reinfection or lingering viral RNA, which can complicate interpretation of positive results
- Isolation guidance: The CDC recommends isolating at least 5 days from symptom onset or positive test, with masking through day 10. Ending isolation earlier is possible if symptoms improve and you have negative antigen tests 48 hours apart. If symptoms worsen or you test positive again after ending isolation, restart isolation
In summary, you will likely test positive on a rapid antigen test for about 10 days, but PCR tests can remain positive for up to 90 days. Testing positive beyond 10 days does not necessarily mean you are contagious, but caution is advised, especially if symptoms persist or worsen
