What should you know about a positive COVID-19 result?

A positive result should be treated as evidence of infection, even if symptoms are mild or absent. The result does not predict exactly how severe the illness will be. Watch for fever, cough, fatigue, headache, feeling generally unwell, or breathing changes, and consider the needs of people who share your home.

Most infections improve, but symptoms can continue or complications can develop. Ongoing fatigue, breathlessness, or difficulty returning to usual activities should be discussed with a clinician; persistent symptoms may need assessment for Long COVID.

Follow current local advice about staying home, masking, ventilation, and contact with others. Tell close contacts or household members when appropriate, particularly if someone is medically vulnerable. Rest, drink fluids, and keep a record of symptom changes and medicines taken.

Contact a clinician promptly if you are pregnant, older, immunocompromised, or living with a condition that raises concern. Ask about treatment options early, because some treatments are time-sensitive and need a review of your medicines and medical history.

Seek emergency help for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, new confusion, collapse, inability to stay awake, or sudden chest pressure. Get prompt medical advice if breathing becomes harder, fever persists or returns, you cannot maintain fluids, or weakness is increasing. Do not wait for a repeat test before seeking urgent help.

Ask how long to limit contact, whether you need treatment, which symptoms require review, and how to protect household members. If symptoms remain after the infection, ask when to arrange a follow-up assessment.