I tested positive for COVID. How long to isolate and retest?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have tested positive for COVID today.

How long should I be in quarantine, and is it required to do the test again?

If so, when should I take the test?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

As per the guidelines, you should isolate yourself for two weeks to prevent spreading the infection. A re-test is usually recommended two to three days before completing isolation. It is equally important that you watch out for symptoms like severe cough, breathlessness, continuous fever, etc. Also, monitor your oxygen saturation levels (level of oxygen in the blood) at least two times daily, which should be anywhere between 95% and 100%, and seek medical help if it goes below this.

I hope this helps.

Take care.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

That could happen in some cases, wherein the patient is entirely asymptomatic (free of any symptoms of the disease) still test positive due to the remnant infection or reinfection; that is uncommon. It is better to repeat the test after five to seven days in such cases.

I hope this helps.