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Testing
It is important to stay at home and to get tested for COVID-19 if you have any cold or flu-like symptoms, no matter how mild.
Get tested if you have any COVID-19 symptoms, even if mild. You still need to get tested even if you have been vaccinated.
There are 2 types of test that can detect if you have the COVID-19 virus:
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rapid antigen self-tests (RATs).
- This type of test is quick and easy to use, you can do the test yourself, and the results are known in around 10 to 20 minutes.
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polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test
- This type of test is sent to a Laboratory for a result, and results are known in 24 – 48 hours.
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Get a PCR test
Find out who should get a PCR test and where to get tested. It is important for people at higher risk to discuss access to testing and treatment with their GP before they get sick.
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Using a RAT
Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are easy and quick to use, and you can do the test yourself at home. Find out more about taking a RAT and where to get test kits.
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Test results explained
Find out how to read your RAT result and what results mean for RAT and PCR tests.
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