What do the results mean?
If your results were positive, it means you probably have a coronavirus infection. There is no specific treatment for these infections, but your health care provider may recommend steps to relieve your symptoms. These include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Resting
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
You may need to go to the hospital if your symptoms get worse, which may be a sign of pneumonia. Symptoms of pneumonia include a worsening cough, increased trouble breathing, and a high fever.
If you were diagnosed with a coronavirus infection, you should also take the following steps to prevent others from getting sick:
- Stay home, except to get medical care.
- Wear a facemask when you are around other people.
- Do not share drinking glasses, eating utensils, towels, bedding, or other items with people in your home.
- Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or a tissue, not your hands.
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
If your results were negative, you may need further testing and/or an exam by your provider. Until you get a diagnosis, you will still need to take steps to prevent spreading the infection.