How long should I wait to take a COVID-19 test after exposure to a known or suspected case?

Regardless of their vaccination status, people who have had a close contact exposure with someone known or suspected of having COVID-19 should be tested at least 5 days after the incident, if possible, or earlier if symptoms develop.

Who is considered a close contact to someone with COVID-19?

For COVID-19, a close contact is anyone who was less than 6 feet away from you for a combined total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period. An infected person can transmit SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, starting 48 hours (2 days) before they have symptoms or before they were tested.

How long is the incubation period for COVID-19?

– The incubation period for COVID-19. Given that the incubation period can be up to 14 days, CDC recommends conducting screening testing at least weekly.

What should people do if they are in close contact with someone infected with the coronavirus disease?

They should stay home, maintain social distancing, and self-monitor until 14 days from the last date of exposure.

What should I do if I’ve been exposed to a confirmed case of Covid-19 if my vaccine is not up-to-date?

Stay home and quarantine for at least 5 full days. Wear a well-fitted mask if you must be around others in your home. Do not travel. Even if you don’t develop symptoms, get tested at least 5 days after you last had close contact with someone with COVID-19.