You can take a COVID test as soon as you have symptoms, but if you are testing after exposure without symptoms, it is best to wait about 5 days after the exposure for more accurate results. Testing too early (within 1-2 days of exposure) may give a false negative because the viral load may not be high enough to detect, especially with rapid antigen tests. If symptoms develop, you should test immediately, and if your first test is negative but you still have symptoms, retesting after 48 hours is advised. RT-PCR tests are most sensitive around day 5 after exposure. Rapid antigen tests may be used sooner but may require repeat testing for accuracy. Summary:
- With symptoms: test immediately.
- After exposure with no symptoms: wait about 5 days to test.
- If negative but symptomatic: retest after 48 hours.
- RT-PCR recommended around day 5 for best accuracy.
- Rapid antigen tests quicker but less sensitive, may need repeats.
This approach minimizes false negatives and improves detection reliability.
