Vaccines, masks, and proper precautions can reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19. However, there is always a small possibility that you may become infected. COVID-19 tests can be used at home to determine whether or not you've caught this virus. Here are four tips that can help you use COVID-19 tests effectively:
1. Keep a supply of COVID-19 tests on hand.
COVID-19 tests can identify COVID-19 infections once they've begun. By the time you need a COVID-19 test, you may not be feeling well. Additionally, it's important to stay home when you have signs of illness to avoid infecting others. That's why you should keep a supply of COVID-19 tests at home. Having adequate tests on hand will ensure that they're always available when you need them, so you won't need to run to the drugstore.
2. Test yourself after potential COVID-19 exposures and before important events.
If you develop flu-like symptoms, you should take a COVID-19 test. However, it's important to keep in mind that not everyone who contracts COVID-19 will be symptomatic. This means that you can have COVID-19 and feel perfectly fine. Testing yourself after potential COVID-19 exposures can help you keep track of your health status. The Center for Disease Control suggests that COVID-19 tests should be performed five days after exposure. Additionally, you may also want to test yourself before traveling or attending important events. This will allow you to keep yourself and others as safe and healthy as possible.
3. Read and follow the test directions precisely.
Home COVID-19 tests can provide a reasonably reliable gauge of your COVID-19 status. However, these tests are only accurate when performed correctly. Before taking a COVID-19 test, read all of the instructions provided. Instructions may vary between different brands of tests, so it's important to pay close attention. Follow all test instructions precisely and use a timer to accurately gauge the time elapsed during each step. Many tests are invalid after a certain amount of time has passed, so it's important to be precise with your timing.
4. Test yourself once your symptoms abate.
When you have COVID-19, it's important to quarantine yourself while you're contagious. A COVID-19 test can help you determine when it's safe to rejoin society. You should take another COVID-19 test once your symptoms are gone and continue to test until you receive a negative result. Current health mandates in your area will let you know how many days you should wait after a negative test to end your quarantine.
Contact your health care provider if you have additional questions about COVID-19 tests.
