How long does it take to catch COVID from someone?

Transmission is more likely during close, prolonged contact, particularly indoors with poor ventilation, but exposure does not always lead to infection. A person can spread the virus before they realise they are ill. The date and duration of contact, airflow, masking and the other person’s infectious period all affect risk.

Symptoms may include fever, cough, headache, fatigue or feeling generally unwell. Some people have mild symptoms or none, so feeling well does not rule out infection. A negative test soon after contact may be too early to settle the question.

Write down when the contact occurred and watch for changes in your health. If symptoms develop, limit close contact, improve ventilation and use a test as directed. Do not share cups, towels or other items that may carry respiratory secretions, and consider people at higher risk when deciding how to meet.

If you become unwell, read about [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/) and follow advice from a healthcare professional. Persistent fatigue, joint pain, low mood, loss of smell or loss of taste deserves review rather than being dismissed as part of the exposure alone.

Get urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, or blue or grey lips or skin. Contact a clinician if symptoms are getting worse, you are unable to drink enough, or you have a higher risk of severe illness and have had a significant exposure.

When should I test after this contact? What precautions fit my household and workplace? Do my medicines or health conditions change what I should do if symptoms appear?