Getting tested for COVID-19

Get tested if you have symptoms that could be caused by COVID-19. Here are some common symptoms:

• cough
• fever
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose
• loss of smell or taste
• headache
• muscle aches
• nausea
• stomach pain
• diarrhoea
• difficulty breathing
• tiredness. 

Read more about the disease in the text called COVID-19.

You may also need to get tested if any of the following apply:

• You have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19.
• A doctor or nurse asks you to get tested.

Most people who have had COVID-19 are immune to it for at least six months afterwards.

Immune means protected against getting infected and sick again.

Get tested if you had COVID-19 more than six months ago and you get sick again.

You should also get tested if you are vaccinated and get sick. Read more in the text called Vaccination against COVID-19.

The most common test is called a PCR test. You can order a PCR test.

A sample is taken with a special swab in your nose, your throat or both.

It may feel strange, but it does not hurt.

A nurse can collect the sample.

You can also collect the sample yourself. If this is the case, you will get more information on what you need to do.

It is important that you stay at home until you get your test results.

If the test results show that you have COVID-19, stay at home until you are no longer contagious. You are no longer contagious when all of the following apply:

• You are feeling a lot better.
• You have been fever-free for two days.
• At least seven days have passed since you became ill.

You do not need a new test to find out whether you are still contagious.

Anyone living with you may also need to stay home if you have COVID-19. You will get information about this when you get your test results.

Read more in the text called What can I do if I have COVID-19?

If the test results show that you do not have COVID-19, stay at home until you feel better and do not have a fever.

When you are healthy, it is important that you continue reducing the risk of spreading the virus. This is true even if you are immune. Make sure you do the following:

• Wash your hands often.
• Keep your distance from other people.
• Follow the authorities’ guidelines to reduce the spread of the virus.

Call 08-123 680 00 if you have any questions about COVID-19 and want to talk to someone who speaks English. The phone line is open Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 15:00.