Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, testing has become popular and mandatory, especially during hospital visits. Most healthcare practitioners recommend covid testing, with or without showing symptoms. Testing for covid helps clear doubts and improve your emotional and physical well-being. It is a fast, easy and painless process that can be done in your doctor’s office, community testing site, or school. Through covid testing, you can protect your family and friends from contracting the virus or other covid-related health issues. Here is how the Federal Way Covid testing services can help improve your overall health and that of your loved ones.
When Should You Go for Covid Testing?
According to various health organizations, you should go for covid testing if you have signs of an infection. These signs and the severity of the infection might vary from one individual to another. Some common signs you should look out for include fever, persistent headaches, sore throat, shortness of breath, body weakness, and stuffy or runny nose.
If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, visit your doctor immediately to avoid spreading the virus to the general public. Also, if you have recently exposed yourself to someone with Covid-19 symptoms, it would be best to go for testing as soon as possible.
How Long After Exposure Is Covid Testing Necessary?
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, you should go for covid testing five days after exposure even if you have no symptoms. However, if you develop signs of COVID-19, it is recommended to go for testing within ten days after your last contact with an infected person. Covid testing immediately after exposure is not advised since your viral level might not be detectable.
Which Covid Testing Is More Effective?
Covid testing falls under two main categories. They include rapid and laboratory testing. Since COVID-19 is highly contagious, there is a need to develop easy options where individuals can test for the virus even in the comfort of their homes.
Rapid covid testing is the fastest and easiest test that can be performed at home, in pharmacies, or in a healthcare facility. It acts as a preventative measure for those with no or mild symptoms.
On the contrary, a covid laboratory test is more accurate and effective and follows a strict protocol. This test is carried out and analyzed by a healthcare professional in a laboratory for individuals with severe symptoms of COVID-19 or those with a suspected infection. In most cases, the covid laboratory test might require an additional test to confirm the results.
How Long Does Covid Testing Take?
Depending on the test you need, it might take a few minutes to a couple of days to get results. For instance, a laboratory covid test might take a day or more to get effective results. The rapid covid test takes only 15 to 20 minutes to complete and get results. However, if your test turns out negative but you have a suspected infection, it is recommendable to go for laboratory covid testing. Ensure you talk with your doctor to determine which test is appropriate.
Do you have mild COVID-19 symptoms or a suspected infection? Contact Prudent Medical Providers for covid testing services to prevent other health complications and the risk of spreading the virus to your loved ones. Through the team of healthcare professionals and covid experts, you will receive guidelines on preventing further infections in the future. Schedule an appointment online or use the telemedicine option to receive your healthcare services in the comfort of your home.
