COVID-19 Testing Clinic in Virginia

If you’ve tested positive for COVID-19, it’s important to understand how long you could be contagious to others. The CDC currently advises that most people are contagious for about 8 to 10 days after symptoms start, but this can vary based on the severity of the infection.

Most people with mild symptoms are contagious from 2 days before symptoms appear and for up to 10 days after. During this time, it’s crucial to isolate yourself from others to prevent spreading the virus to them. In addition, if you have a more severe case of COVID-19 or if you have a weakened immune system, you could remain contagious for up to 20 days. While you are contagious, it’s essential to follow the advice of your healthcare provider and continue to monitor your symptoms closely.

The safest approach is to isolate yourself for at least 5 full days after symptoms begin, then wear a mask around others for the remaining 5 days, even if your symptoms are going away. If your fever persists, you need to stay in isolation until it goes away.

In terms of COVID-19 testing, there are two primary types: diagnostic tests and antibody tests. Diagnostic screenings are used to test whether you currently have an active infection. The two main types of diagnostic tests for COVID-19 are:

● PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests: Commonly referred to as the “gold standard” of COVID-19 testing, PCR tests are highly accurate. Results typically take anywhere from 24 hours to a few days. PCR tests are sensitive and can catch even small traces of the virus, which makes them the go-to for international travel and official testing.

● Rapid antigen tests: These are quicker than PCR tests, delivering results in about 15 to 30 minutes, but they’re less sensitive. Antigen tests detect proteins from the virus, which means they’re most effective for confirming active infections in people showing symptoms. However, rapid antigen tests may miss infections in the early or late stages, or in asymptomatic cases.

In terms of antibody tests, they aren’t used to diagnose current infections. Instead, they check whether you’ve had COVID-19 in the past by detecting antibodies in your blood. Antibody tests are done through a blood sample and are used to determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus before, but they shouldn’t be used to make decisions about isolation.

You should get tested for COVID-19 if:

● You have symptoms – If you’re experiencing symptoms that include fever, a dry cough, loss of smell or taste, or shortness of breath, you should get a COVID-19 test right away. Even mild symptoms can be a result of COVID-19, and getting tested helps you confirm whether you need to isolate to prevent spreading the virus.

● You were around someone who tested positive – It’s strongly urged that you get tested if you’ve been in close contact with a person infected with COVID-19—even if you haven’t developed symptoms yet. You should wait 5 days after your exposure before your COVID-19 screening, as it takes some time for the virus to show up on tests.

● You’re traveling – Some destinations require a negative PCR test before allowing you to enter, especially for international travel. It’s crucial to check the specific testing requirements of the country you’re traveling to.

In addition, if your workplace, school, or any other organization you’re a part of requires routine COVID-19 testing to ensure safety, you may need to get tested regularly even if you’re not experiencing symptoms. Remember, if you test negative with a rapid antigen test but still have symptoms or suspect you were exposed, it’s a good idea to follow up with a PCR test for more accurate results.

The dedicated professionals at Nova Patient Care offer COVID-19 testing services across several convenient locations in Virginia. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Annandale VA, Arlington VA, Bethel VA, Dale City VA, Falls Church VA, Fort Hunt VA, Franconia VA, Huntington VA, Richmond Hwy Alexandria VA, Idylwood VA, Kingstowne Center Alexandria VA, Lake Barcroft VA, Mclean VA, Newington VA, Old Town Alexandria VA, Pentagon City Arlington VA, Seven Corners VA, Tysons VA, Woodbridge, VA and surrounding areas.