Joe Gastaldo, MD, Infectious Disease Specialist, explains the new rules for home COVID-19 tests, including when and if you should take a second (or even third) test.
Dr. Gastaldo explains that the FDA came out with new guidance on home antigen tests on August 11. The new guidance says if somebody has a positive home antigen test, they have COVID, and no further testing is needed.
If somebody has a negative test, repeat testing is recommended. If you’re symptomatic and your first home test is negative, that test needs to be repeated at 48 hours. If you have asymptomatic exposure, and if your index of suspicion is high for being exposed, you should test yourself for a total of three times separated by 48 hours.
Want to learn more about common COVID-19 questions? Check our Fast Facts page.
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Prevention