Which kind of test should I get?
There are many different kinds of COVID-19 tests and it can be difficult to decide which kind is best for your situation. Rapid antigen tests can return results within 30 minutes, some of which are authorized for at-home use. PCR tests can detect very low levels of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and are often preferred for situations where testing negative is extremely important (i.e., for travel, before multi-day festivals, to live in dormitory housing, etc.). These and other tests can all answer the question of “do I have COVID-19 right now?”; for day-to-day testing, you can choose the most accessible and affordable test option. Antibody tests can tell you whether you were previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 but cannot tell you whether you are infected right now. Learn more about all the different COVID-19 tests here: https://www.centerforhealthsecurity.org/covid-19TestingToolkit/testing-basics/types-of-COVID-19-tests.html
Do you need to show official test results?
Yes, I need to show official test results
+ –If you need to provide verified test results, it is best to get tested by a professional at any location where COVID-19 tests are offered. You can find a testing site near you using this HHS resource: https://www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/community-based-testing-sites/index.html. Whether you sign up for a rapid antigen test, a PCR test, or a different kind of test, the laboratory professionals will be able to provide you with official documentation. A photograph of a rapid antigen test taken by yourself without supervision likely will not be accepted if official results are required. However, some at-home test kits allow you to make a supervised telemedicine appointment so that a laboratory or medical professional can observe you performing the test, review your results, and provide you with official documentation.
How old is the person who needs a test?
Under 5 years old or requires testing assistance
+ –A viral test can detect whether a person is infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. There are 2 types of viral tests that use body fluid samples from your nose or mouth: rapid antigen tests (at-home tests) and laboratory molecular tests (PCR tests). If you plan to travel internationally, it is best to check with the countries you will be traveling through and your destination to determine what type of test is required and when you need to test. Check with your pediatrician about which tests are recommended for children under age 2.
Over 5 years old or can independently test
+ –A viral test can detect whether a person is infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. There are 2 types of viral tests that use body fluid samples from your nose or mouth: rapid antigen tests (at-home tests) and laboratory molecular tests (PCR tests). Most tests are authorized for use on anyone aged 2 years and older. If you plan to travel internationally, it is best to check with the countries you will be traveling through and your destination to determine what type of test is required and when you need to test. Check with your healthcare provider about which tests are recommended for persons who require assistance with performing self-testing.
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