Going somewhere? Here’s how to test yourself for Covid-19 before you do

“Think about the at-home rapid test as a screening test … for public health purposes, not a diagnostic test,” Wen added.

Consider using a self-test before joining indoor gatherings with people who don’t live with you, the CDC recommends. This suggestion is especially important if you’re planning on being around unvaccinated children, older adults, immunocompromised people or those at risk of severe disease — and, of course, if you have Covid-19 symptoms or have been exposed or possibly exposed to someone with Covid-19.

Here’s what else is important to know for before, during and after taking a self-test.

Preparing and taking self-tests

Until you’re ready to use the test, store all test items according to the manufacturer’s instructions, the CDC says. This includes not opening it until you’re ready to use it.

Before taking the test, clean the surface — such as the countertop, table, etc. — on which you’ll do the test. Have a timer ready since you might need to time some of the steps.

Carefully read all the manufacturer’s instructions, the CDC recommends. Then, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When you open the box, check the test for any damage or discoloration according to the manufacturer’s description.

To collect your nasal or saliva sample — depending on the type of test you have — and complete the test, chronologically follow the included instructions.

Read the test results only within the timeframe specified in the instructions, the CDC says. If you don’t follow the instructions, your test results could be incorrect or invalid or say “error.” If this happens — due to improper use or test malfunction — check the package inserts for information or contact the manufacturer for help.

Next steps

Once you’ve taken the test, don’t reuse any of the items, the CDC says. Discard them in the trash, clean all surfaces the sample might have touched and wash your hands.

If you test positive, isolate yourself for at least 10 days, and tell your doctor and any people with whom you’ve recently had contact. Avoid indoor gatherings and, if you live with others, wear a mask.

If your result was negative and you’re asymptomatic, you might not have an infection — but that possibility isn’t ruled out. Doing “serial tests” can make self-testing more reliable and reduce your risk of spreading coronavirus if infected, according to the CDC. This means doing two or more tests over several days with at least 24 hours between tests, with one test as close as possible to the event you want to attend.

But if you have Covid-19 symptoms yet still test negative, “you should just go straight to getting a PCR test. Why get an at-home test?” Wen said. “The only situation where you would do that is if you just don’t have access to a PCR test.”