When should I test for COVID-19?

You should test for COVID-19 if:

  • you have symptoms, even if mild.
  • you are living with someone who has COVID-19 (test regularly for at least 7 days, even if you do not have symptoms).

It is especially important to test early if you are at higher risk of severe illness or you are eligible for oral antiviral treatment, or you are in contact with or work with people who are at higher risk or eligible for antiviral treatment.

Which COVID-19 test should I get?

If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you should get a PCR test  if:

  • you are at higher risk of severe illness and test negative using a rapid antigen test
  • you are eligible for oral antiviral treatment and test negative using a rapid antigen test.

This will enable you to access treatment quickly, if eligible.  

You should use a rapid antigen test if:

  • you are at low risk of severe COVID-19 illness but have COVID-19 symptoms
  • you want to check if you have COVID-19 before attending a large event or visiting people at higher risk of severe illness

If you are at higher risk of severe illness, make a plan with your GP or healthcare professional about what you should do if you get symptoms.

Your doctor may give you a referral for a PCR test or give you a PCR self-collect test to use if you get symptoms.