How long does someone test positive for COVID?

The result depends on when the infection started, the test used and how much viral material is present in the sample. A positive result does not by itself show exactly when a person became infectious or whether they still have symptoms.

Rapid antigen tests detect viral proteins and often become negative as the amount of virus falls. PCR tests detect smaller amounts of viral genetic material, and this material can remain after the period when a person is most able to spread infection.

A faint line on a rapid test should still be treated as positive if the test instructions say the result is valid. A negative test does not rule out infection very early in an illness, especially when symptoms are present.

Stay home and limit close contact while you have fever or feel acutely unwell. Improve ventilation, wear a well-fitting mask around other people and avoid contact with people at higher risk of severe illness.

Follow the instructions for your specific test and any current local health guidance. If a PCR result stays positive after you feel better, ask a clinician whether another test is useful; repeating PCR tests may not answer whether you can still spread the infection.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are worsening, fever returns, or you have ongoing breathlessness, chest discomfort, marked weakness or difficulty staying hydrated. Contact a clinician sooner if you are pregnant, older, immunocompromised or have a long-term condition that raises your risk from COVID-19.

Seek emergency help for severe trouble breathing, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or lips, face or skin that look blue, grey or unusually pale. Persistent symptoms after the infection, such as fatigue, loss of smell, low mood or difficulty concentrating, also merit a clinical review.

Ask which test result should guide your return to work or close contact, whether your symptoms need assessment, and whether you need treatment because of your medical history. Take the test name, result, date and symptom timeline to the appointment.