One of the quickest and simplest methods to know whether you have an infection, like COVID-19, is to do a regular lateral flow testing, often known as the rapid test. You can get the test result in minutes, whether performed at home or in a professional setting. However, people often ask, can I do a lateral flow test every day? How often should you do a lateral flow test? 

The good news is we’ve got all the answers here! This intuitive post will uncover the recommended lateral flow test frequency and factors affecting how often you should be testing for coronavirus.

How often should you do a lateral flow covid test?

The frequency of COVID-19 testing varies according to the circumstances of the person and regulatory requirements. 

For example, if someone is in close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case, they may be required to take a test every day for a certain number of days.

Additionally, certain individuals may be tested weekly or monthly depending on their risk level and occupation. However, it’s crucial to abide by the advice given by public health authorities and/or your company.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that you continue to follow testing recommendations depending on your risk of exposure, even if you have received the complete COVID-19 vaccine.

Factors influencing the frequency of testing for covid

Several factors can influence the need to update lateral flow tests for COVID-19. These include the following: 

1. 1. Risk of exposure: Individuals who have been in close contact with COVID-19 patients should get tested as soon as possible.
2. 2. Occupation: Healthcare and essential workers who are regularly in contact with people at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 may be advised to get tested more frequently, such as once a week.
3. 3. Travel: Some countries or states may require travellers to get tested before or after entering the area or to quarantine for a certain period.
4. 4. Vaccination status: Fully vaccinated individuals may be recommended to test less frequently than unvaccinated individuals, but it’s still important to follow guidance from public health officials.
5. 5. Local testing guidelines: Different countries or states may have different testing recommendations, so it’s best to check with your local health department for guidance on how often you should get tested.
6. 6. Precautionary: Some people may take more frequent tests as a precautionary measure, particularly if they have underlying health conditions or live with someone at high risk.

When should you get tested for covid immediately?

If you have any of the following, get tested for COVID-19 right away:

Covid-19 symptoms: This includes fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of sense of smell or taste, and other respiratory symptoms.

Close contact with people with the virus: If you have had a close association with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you should perform a quick test and again five to seven days later.

Travel history: You should go for testing as soon as possible if you have recently visited a location with high levels of COVID-19 or are travelling back from one.

Exposure to a high-risk environment: Another reason for regular lateral flow testing is if you have been in a high-risk environment, such as a long-term care facility or correctional facility.

Government priority: Some governments may prioritise particular categories of individuals for testing, such as essential workers or those with underlying medical concerns; if you fall into such category, you should be tested.

Conclusion

As you can see, the recommended lateral flow tests frequency of COVID-19 lateral flow testing varies based on factors such as the risk of exposure, occupation, travel, vaccination status, local testing guidelines, community transmission, and personal preference. Finally, it’s important to follow guidance from public health officials and seek testing if you have symptoms or have been in close contact with a confirmed case.