Can you have COVID with no symptoms? Many of us can be the silent victims of SARS-CoV-2 with no apparent COVID-19 symptoms. This is particularly true for social care workers or carers at home, who are at risk of exposure to this respiratory infection. They may not develop the symptoms at once, depending on their medical condition. Therefore, it is important to get tested once you are exposed to the virus. Testing is also important if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms like a diminished sense of taste or shortness of breath. The positive COVID-19 test result helps determine the self-isolation period as well as inhibit the spread of infection.  

Do You Have to Isolate After a Lateral Flow Test?

You can now perform at-home lateral flow tests if you are providing care to household contacts suffering from COVID-19 or are responsible for social care. A lateral flow test is a rapid test that saves people from making in-person appointments, saving them both time and the risk of contracting the disease. The instructions on the test kits serve as guidance for people about the procedure of the test and the reading of the results. 

But do you have to isolate after a lateral flow test? In case of a positive COVID-19 test result, you need to isolate for 5 days from the day of exposure or the onset of symptoms. You can end the self-isolation period if the symptoms disappear after 5 days. However, you should be careful when using public transportation or maintaining contact with people for at least 10 days. Always wear a mask while leaving home.

Tips for Persons Who Test Positive

If you tested positive for COVID, you need to immediately isolate yourself to inhibit the spread of infection. The other protective measures include:

• Avoid direct contact with people;
• Always sanitise frequently used items like remote controls;
• Use separate utensils, bedsheets, etc.;
• Do not go into public places or welcome guests into your house.

Call your healthcare provider immediately if you experience shortness of breath. People with sensitive heart conditions or other chronic health problems should be kept under supervision.

Tips for Persons Who Test Negative

How long after having COVID will I test positive? It is a question that worries many. There are a lot of chances that people can get positive COVID-19 test results months after the initial infection. This is because certain strains of the virus remain in the human body for quite some time. However, if you tested negative after the self-isolation period, you should observe safety measures for at least 10 days from the day your symptoms started developing. It is better to get a PCR test done for confirmation. Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces and avoid public transportation.

Conclusion

COVID-19 is a respiratory infection that can be deadly if not taken seriously. You should get tested even if you experience mild symptoms or if you are a care provider. Lateral flow tests are one of the simplest ways to test. In case of a positive COVID-19 test result, observe the recommended isolation period and other precautionary measures.