After exposure to the coronavirus (COVID-19), it is generally recommended to wait at least five full days before getting tested if you do not have symptoms. Testing too soon after exposure can result in inaccurate or false- negative results since the virus may not be detectable yet. If symptoms develop, testing should be done immediately. For higher accuracy, multiple tests over several days may be advised, especially if initial tests are negative despite symptoms or known exposure.
Key points on testing timing after exposure:
- If asymptomatic after exposure: wait at least 5 days before testing.
- If symptomatic: test immediately.
- If initial antigen test is negative but symptoms develop or there is known exposure, repeat testing is recommended 48 hours later.
- Multiple tests over 5 days can increase detection accuracy.
- Testing earlier than 5 days post-exposure can lead to false-negative results.
- Ideally, testing around 5 to 7 days post-exposure maximizes accuracy based on incubation period averages of about 5 days.
These recommendations are consistent across multiple health authorities including the FDA, CDC, and Harvard University Health Services.
