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when you test positive for covid how long ?

### How Long Can You Test Positive for COVID-19 After Catching the Virus?

Since the beginning of the pandemic, testing for COVID-19 has been one of the primary measures to track, manage, and prevent the spread of the virus. When you test positive for the virus, you might want to know how long the positive results will last, as it has implications not only for your personal health but also for public health guidelines and safety measures.

#### Duration of Positive Tests Varies

The persistence of a positive COVID-19 test result can vary significantly depending on the type of test used. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests, which are more sensitive and can detect even small amounts of the virus, can show positive results for up to 90 days or more in some cases. This means that even after you have recovered and are no longer contagious, you might continue to get positive results on PCR tests. However, this does not necessarily mean that you are still infectious; it’s more about the sensitivity of the test detecting the remnants of the virus in your system.

On the other hand, rapid antigen tests, which are commonly used at home, are less sensitive and can provide results faster. These tests tend to show positive results for a shorter period, often only a few weeks in infected individuals with active infections.

#### Managing Your Health and Safety if You Test Positive

Once you know that you have tested positive for COVID-19, several steps should be followed to ensure both your health and the safety of others around you. According to the NHS, for example, it’s recommended to self-isolate for at least five days, particularly if you are experiencing symptoms.

After the five-day period, if you have mild symptoms or your symptoms have improved and you no longer have a fever, you may be able to end isolation. However, using a face mask both indoors and outdoors is advised until day 10 or longer, depending on local public health guidelines and the nature of your contact with others.

For children and young people aged 18 or under, the self-isolation period after a positive test is shorter—only three days. This is because younger individuals tend to be less infectious to others over a more extended period.

#### Important Points to Consider

– **Testing Twice:** If you’ve tested positive, it’s recommended that you use the second test included in your test kit to ensure accuracy and to validate whether the virus is still detectable and possibly active.

– **Avoiding Close Contact:** During the period you are testing positive, even if you are no longer exhibiting symptoms, it’s important to avoid close contact with others to minimize the risk of accidental transmission.

– **Retesting After Paxlovid Treatment:** If you have finished your course of Paxlovid (a medication used to treat mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19) and develop symptoms post-treatment, it’s worth getting retested.

– **Understanding Non-Contagious vs. Positive Test Results:** It’s crucial to understand the distinction between still being infectious and testing positive. A positive PCR test result could be from the virus’s remnants lingering in your system and not necessarily mean you are still contagious.

#### Guidance from Health Authorities

Health authorities are continuously updating their guidelines regarding the duration for which you should self-isolate, based on the latest health studies and the transmission dynamics of the virus. Be sure to stay informed about any changes issued by entities like the World Health Organization (WHO) and your local health department.

In summary, how long you can test positive for COVID-19 depends on the type of test, your health condition, and how long the remnants of the virus stick around in your system post-recovery. Always follow the advice of your healthcare provider and public health officials to stay safe and contribute to the containment of the virus.