![]() What happens if my test is positive for COVID-19? If you have any questions about your results, contact the clinic, GP practice or hospital where the test was carried out. The National Coronavirus Helpline does not receive test results. If your result is negative, you do not need to isolate. You will receive your test result from your local health department. When will I get my COVID-19 PCR test result? It is important you do not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth or chew gum for 10 to 30 minutes before collecting saliva for a RAT since doing these things may give you an incorrect result. If you take a RAT, follow the instructions provided with the test. Practise good hand and cough hygiene, and avoid close contact with other people, including members of your own household. Do not go out in public, including to work or school. In most cases, you will be told to go straight home and wait for your results. If you get tested at a GP practice, ask the staff how you will get your result.Īfter your test, you should follow the instructions of your doctor or the healthcare professional at the testing clinic. You will also need to provide your contact details so you can get your test results. You will need to bring your Medicare card with you - if you do not have a Medicare card, bring at least one form of identification, such as your driver's licence or student ID. If you are getting a PCR test, you may need a referral and an appointment. You do not need to fast beforehand or take any samples with you. The COVID-19 test is done by taking a swab of the back of your throat and your nose. What do I need to do before I test for COVID-19? Rapid antigen tests usually cost between $10 and $15 per test, but they may be free in some cases. People who need them can get them for free if their GP or nurse requests one for them, or at GP-led Respiratory Clinics or state- or territory-run COVID-19 testing centres. PCR tests are free for the people who need them. RATs are generally less accurate than PCR tests. The person taking the test collects the sample, does the test and interprets the results. RATs can be used anywhere - such as at home or at work - without the supervision of a health practitioner. RATs are more accurate when people have symptoms, so it’s better to take the test in the first 7 days of having symptoms. Rapid antigen tests, or RATs, detect the presence of proteins of the virus. Nucleic acid tests are complicated to do and usually need to be done by specialists in a laboratory. PCR tests are good at detecting the virus early in the infection, sometimes before a person develops any symptoms. These tests detect the presence of the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. Polymerase chain reaction tests - PCR tests - are a type of nucleic acid test. The call handler will tell you whether you’re able to have a COVID-19 test at your home. Call 1800 643 787, Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm (AET), except on national public holidays. If you cannot leave your home because you have a disability and need a PCR test, you can call the Disability Gateway helpline. If you are part of a priority group, you can get one at a state- or territory-run COVID-19 testing centre.įor more information about state and territory PCR testing arrangements, visit: You can also get a PCR test at a GP-led Respiratory Clinic. If you need a PCR test, you can get one through your doctor or nurse who can request one for you. You can get rapid antigen tests (RATs) online or at pharmacies and retail outlets. Where do I get a COVID-19 test? Rapid antigen tests Check your state or territory government’s rules. You may need to report a RAT positive result. needed as part of a screening program by your school or your employer.you want to check if you have COVID-19 before attending a large event or visiting vulnerable people.you’ve been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 and you do not have symptoms.you’re at low risk of severe COVID-19 illness.you tested positive on a RAT and you need a PCR test to confirm your result.you’re at risk of severe COVID-19 illness.There are 2 types of tests used to diagnose COVID-19 in Australia: polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and rapid antigen tests (RATs). The recommended time to wait before taking this test is decided by your state or territory.ĬHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS - Use the COVID-19 Symptom and Antiviral Eligibility Checker to find out if you need medical help. you have been advised to do so by a health professional orĭepending on how long it has been since you recovered from COVID-19 you may need to take another test if you develop new COVID-19 symptoms.you have symptoms of the illness - even if your symptoms are mild or.COVID quick read When should I get tested for COVID-19? Find out who should get a COVID-19 test, and whether you need a RAT or PCR test. ![]()
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