Whether you’re feeling sick or not, COVID testing is one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself and others around you safe. For some people, the idea of getting tested for COVID-19 can seem a little bit uncomfortable. Fortunately, we’re here to help you learn a little bit more about what COVID testing is like.
Let’s get started.
If you’re not showing any symptoms and you want to get tested for COVID-19, then you’ll likely be participating in a rapid test. These tests involve inserting a short swab into each nostril for a few seconds. The test results are typically ready within 15-20 minutes of your swab. In addition, it’s possible to get this test at your local urgent care, though you will likely need to pay for it upfront. Your doctor or urgent care provider can help you learn more about what that process is like.
If you’re showing symptoms and need to get tested, it’s more likely that you’ll need a PCR test. These tests involve a longer swab, so they’re a bit more invasive than a rapid test. You can also get these tests in an urgent care center. Your results will usually come in after about 24 hours.
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