What Should You Know About a Positive PCR Test?

PCR testing looks for small amounts of viral genetic material in a sample, often collected from the nose or throat. A positive result supports that the virus was detected in that sample. It does not, by itself, show how severe an illness will be or whether you currently have symptoms.

The result should be interpreted with the test date, your symptoms, recent exposure, and any advice from the testing service. A PCR result is different from a rapid antigen result because the tests detect different signals and may be processed differently.

Read the instructions provided with your result and follow the current local guidance about staying home, work, school, visitors, and testing. Until you know what applies to you, avoid close contact, improve ventilation, and consider wearing a well-fitting mask around others. Do not share personal items, and wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or handling used tissues.

Rest, drink fluids, and use symptom medicines only as directed and when suitable for you. Contact a clinician promptly if you are pregnant, immunocompromised, have a long-term condition, or take medicines that may need review after an infection. Keep the result available if a clinician asks when and where you were tested.

Seek urgent medical help for severe difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, fainting, inability to stay awake, or blue, grey, or very pale lips or skin. If symptoms are worsening, you cannot keep fluids down, or you are worried about your condition, contact a healthcare professional without waiting for symptoms to become severe.

Call ahead before visiting a clinic and mention the positive result so the team can advise you on arrival arrangements. For background information, see the COVID-19 page and the COVID-19 Test page.

Ask which precautions apply to your situation, whether you need a follow-up test, how to manage your symptoms, and whether your health conditions or medicines change your care plan. You can also ask when it is appropriate to return to normal activities and which warning signs should prompt another call.