- Home
- Departments
- Health
- COVID-19
COVID-19
COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment Scheduling
COVID-19 Vaccine Information
Learn what to expect when you receive your vaccine.
Find Vaccine Clinic locations in Abilene & the Big Country area
Influenza Vaccine Appointment Scheduling
COVID-19 Dashboard
Texas Department of State Health Services
COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs
How do I schedule my appointment for a Vaccine Clinic?
- Visit abilenetx.gov/vaccineschedule & read all disclosures before signing.
- Enter your personal information.
- Answer the health screening questions.
- Enter your preferred date and choose a time for your vaccine appointment. Available times will be shown in the drop-down box
- Once you have completed all the required information, you will be prompted to sign the final document. Click the sign button and your appointment information will then be forwarded to the Abilene Taylor County Health District.
- You do not need to print your completed form.
What criteria do I need to meet to get a vaccine?
Anyone 6 months and older is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine from the Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District Clinics.
- Only the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are approved for children 6 months and older
- You must be 12 and older to register to receive the Novavax vaccine
Do I need to schedule my second dose?
Yes. When you receive your first dose at the Health District clinics, you will be given a COVID-19 Vaccination Card. Please refer to this card for the recommended date and brand for your next dose. Please use this form to schedule your second dose appointment. Please bring your vaccination card and picture ID with you to your appointment.
When should I receive my second dose appointment?
You may receive your second Pfizer dose three weeks after your first dose and your second Moderna dose 4 weeks after your first dose.
Can you get sick with COVID-19 while waiting on the second dose of the vaccine?
It typically takes a few weeks for the body to build immunity after vaccination. That means it’s possible a person could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 just before or just after vaccination and get sick. This is because the vaccine has not had enough time to provide protection. For more information, visit the CDC website's vaccine benefits page.
Can I receive a booster dose of the vaccine?
Pfizer Bivalent Boosters are available for ages 5 and older & Moderna Bivalent Boosters are available for ages 6 months and older, 2 months after they have completed their primary series.
Bivalent Booster Vaccines: Until now, COVID-19 vaccines have targeted the original COVID-19 strain. Each COVID-19 variant has made the vaccine a little less effective. The NEW Bivalent booster vaccine protects against the original strain as well as the Omicron BA.4/BA.5 variants.
Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may have a preference for the vaccine type that they originally received and others, may prefer to get a different booster. CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots. If you have lost your CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record card or don’t have a copy, contact your vaccination provider directly to access your vaccination record. Additional information about your COVID-19 vaccine record can be found here.
Why should I get a COVID-19 vaccine?
All available COVID-19 vaccines effectively prevent moderate cases of the infection and are extremely effective at preventing severe disease that can lead to hospitalization and death.
What does it mean to be Fully Vaccinated?
People are considered fully vaccinated:
- 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as Pfizer or Moderna vaccines
- 2 weeks after their single dose of Johnson & Johnson
Is there a risk of getting COVID-19 from the vaccines?
No. None of the FDA-approved vaccines contain any live COVID-19 virus. Any temporary symptoms after being vaccinated are indicators that the body is building immunity. The COVID-19 vaccines were developed through unprecidented governmental financial support and cooperation between medical experts and the public and private sectors. Every phase of every trial was carefully reviewed and approved by a safety board and the FDA. For more information, visit the CDC website's vaccine facts page.
Will the vaccine protect me against variants of the virus?
All of the available COVID-19 vaccines provide some protection against known emerging variants. America's leading medical experts will continue to monitor variants and vaccine efficacy. The best way to protect yourself against the virus and variants is to get a vaccine when it is available to you.
How long do these vaccines prevent COVID-19?
The duration of protection against COVID-19 is currently unknown.
How does the vaccine work?
Learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work on the CDC's website.
Will the COVID-19 vaccine be free?
Yes, the COVID-19 vaccine series will be free for every individual. No one will be charged out of pocket fees to receive the vaccine. Vaccine providers may ask for your insurance information as they can receive reimbursement for administration fees but they cannot charge these fees to individuals. For more information, visit the CDC website's vaccine FAQs.
I don’t have insurance. Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine? How much will it cost?
Every American will be eligible to receive the vaccine series with no out of pocket costs. If a person has public or private insurance, vaccine providers will be able to charge an administration fee. This fee cannot be charged directly to the patient. For more information, visit the CDC website's vaccine FAQs.
What are the risks and side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Serious side effects are very rare. Mild side effects, like soreness, headache, or fever, are signs your body is building up protection against the virus and typically go away in one to two days. Even if you don't experience any side effects, your immune system is still building your protection against the virus.
Common side effects are:
- injection site pain
- tiredness
- headache
- muscle pain
- chills
- joint pain
- fever
- injection site swelling
- injection site redness
- nausea
- feeling unwell
- swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy)
There is a remote chance that the COVID-19 Vaccine could cause a severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction would usually occur within a few minutes to one hour after getting a dose of the vaccine.
Signs of a severe allergic reaction can include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of your face and throat
- A fast heartbeat
- A bad rash all over your body
- Dizziness and weakness
Should the risk of my teen developing myocarditis stop us from getting them the vaccine?
Myocarditis occurs in much higher percentages with COVID infection—even in mild or asymptomatic infections. Your risks of having myocarditis are greater from getting COVID than they are from getting vaccinated. The cases of myocarditis associated with the vaccine have been mild and have resolved with medication and rest. The CDC is continuing to monitor these rare reports and still recommend the vaccine over risking COVID infection.
SOURCE: The COVID-19 Questions We Don’t Have Answers For Yet
Do I have to quarantine after receiving a COVID-19 vaccination?
No. None of the COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized for use or in development in the United States use the live virus that causes COVID-19.
Although some symptoms from general reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine (side effects), including fever, body aches, and headaches-which last 1-2 days- are the same as those of a COVID-19 infection, this does not mean the vaccine causes infection but that the immune system is working.
What is V-Safe?
V-safe is a smartphone-based tool that will check on you after you get your COVID-19 vaccine. It'll ask about side effects and it'll also remind you when it's time to get your 2nd dose.
Sign up in the V-Safe website.
For more information about V-Safe, view the V-Safe information sheet (PDF) or visit the CDC's website.
Do I need to keep my vaccine card?
Yes. This card serves as your shot record and must be saved for proof of vaccine.
- Keep the card in a safe place until you need it
- Snap a picture of your card with your phone to keep a copy with you
- You may need to present this card for international travel or for proof of vaccination
- Be sure to bring the card to your appointment for your second vaccine dose.
Who provides COVID-19 vaccine in my community?
ATCPHD is just one COVID-19 vaccine provider in our community. Other local healthcare providers and pharmacies have signed up and are receiving COVID-19 vaccine. Please visit the website of or call your primary care provider and local pharmacies to receive more information about how they plan to allocate their doses. Each provider determines how best to distribute their vaccine.
Did CDC guidance change regarding who needs to wear a mask?
Yes. Originally, the CDC recommended all individuals 2 years of age and above wear a mask but due to new research showing the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines, the CDC now states that those fully vaccinated no longer need to wear a mask.
What does it mean to be Fully Vaccinated?
People are considered fully vaccinated:
- 2 weeks after their second dose in a 2-dose series, such as Pfizer or Moderna vaccines
- 2 weeks after their single dose of Johnson & Johnson
Should children under 12 and unvaccinated people still wear masks?
Yes. People who are not vaccinated should still wear a mask to protect themselves and others from COVID-19. This includes children ages 2 and above.
Are there any groups that should still wear a mask even when fully vaccinated?
Yes. Individuals who are immunocompromised or taking medicines that suppress the immune system are still encouraged to wear masks as they may not be fully protected even when fully vaccinated.
Are there any locations where people should continue to wear a mask?
Yes. In healthcare settings, such as hospitals and doctor offices, in school settings and on public transportation, such as buses and planes, individuals should still wear their mask. Individuals should also still wear a mask where required by federal, state, local, tribal or territorial laws, rules and regulations.
Which vaccine brand should I choose?
Millions of Americans have been vaccinated to protect themselves against the COVID-19 Virus. If you're wondering which vaccine is best for you, the short answer is whichever one is available to you upon eligibility. All the FDA-approved vaccines are safe and effective.
What's the difference between the vaccines?
All available COVID-19 vaccines have been shown to be highly effective at preventing serious impacts of the virus including hospitalizations and deaths. Their differences are primarily the dosage schedule and how they can be transported and stored.
Why does storage temperature matter?
All vaccines require refrigeration, and some require cold or ultra-cold storage that many facilities don't have. Each vaccine's storage temperature only matters for storage and transportation - it does not have an impact on the vaccine's effectiveness. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine can be stored in a regular refrigerator, so a local pharmacy or a doctor's office could potentially be a vaccination site, which would increase vaccine access.
How effective is each vaccine?
All three vaccines are highly effective at preventing COVID related hospitalizations and deaths. The single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine has ben shown to be 85% effective in preventing COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths, and, in clinical trials in the U.S., 72% protective against moderate COVID-19 disease. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine showed efficacy of 95% at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infection after two doses and the Moderna vaccine was 94.1% effective at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infection after the second dose.
Who should NOT be vaccinated with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine?
- Those who had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of this vaccine
- Those who have a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient of this vaccine
What are the ingredients in the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine?
The Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine includes the following ingredients:
- mRNA
- lipids ((4-hydroxybutyl)azanediyl)bis(hexane-6,1-diyl)bis(2-hexyldecanoate), 2 [(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide, 1,2-Distearoyl-sn-glycero-3- phosphocholine, and cholesterol)
- potassium chloride
- monobasic potassium phosphate
- sodium chloride
- dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate
- sucrose
Who should NOT be vaccinated with the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine?
- Those who had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of this vaccine
- Those who have a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient of this vaccine
What are the ingredients in the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine?
The Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine includes the following ingredients:
- messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)
- lipids (SM-102, polyethylene glycol [PEG] 2000 dimyristoyl glycerol [DMG], cholesterol, and 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine [DSPC])
- potassium chloride
- monobasic potassium phosphate
- sodium chloride
- dibasic sodium phosphate dihydrate
- sucrose
Are there age restrictions to the vaccine?
The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is authorized for children and adolescents age 5 and up, as a 2-dose series taken 3 weeks apart. The dose for children age 5-11 is one-third of the dosage of the vaccine for older adolescents and adults. The Moderna and Johnson & Johnson** vaccine have been approved for individuals 18 years of age and older.
**The FDA has limited the authorized use of the J&J Janssen COVID-19 vaccine. (Adults only, 18 years and older whom other COVID-19 vaccines are not accessible or clinically propriate. OR 18 years of age and elects to receive J&J Janssen Vaccine and would otherwise not receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
How will I know which vaccine I receive?
You will be notified at the time of your vaccine which brand you’re receiving. You’ll also receive a vaccine card. You must keep your vaccine card as proof of vaccination. You’ll bring this to receive future doses.
I’m pregnant or breastfeeding and am concerned about getting the COVID-19 vaccine. What should I do?
Please contact your primary care physician or specialist to discuss your concerns. Your physician can assist you in making an informed decision for your specific situation.
I’m immunocompromised or have another medical condition. Will this impact my ability to get the vaccine?
Immunocompromised individuals, including those receiving immunosuppressive therapies, may have a diminished immune response to the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Please contact your primary care physician or specialist to discuss your concerns. Your physician can assist you in making an informed decision for your specific situation.
I’ve already had COVID-19. Do I need a vaccine or am I immune?
Experts do not know how long someone is protected from reinfection and this natural immunity can vary from person to person. Reinfection with COVID-19 is possible so even people who have had COVID-19 should consider getting the vaccine.
Has there been a coronavirus vaccine before?
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) are two diseases caused by coronaviruses that are closely related to the virus that causes COVID-19. Researchers began working on developing vaccines for these diseases after they were discovered in 2003 and 2012, respectively. None of the SARS vaccines ever made it past the first stages of development and testing, in large part due to lack of interest because the virus disappeared. One MERS vaccine (MVA-MERS-S) successfully completed a phase 1 clinical trial in 2019. Lessons learned from this earlier vaccine research have been used to inform strategies for developing a COVID-19 vaccine. For more information, visit the CDC website's vaccine FAQs.
Will the vaccine change my DNA?
Receiving an mRNA vaccine will not alter your DNA. mRNA stands for messenger ribonucleic acid and can most easily be described as instructions for how to make a protein or even just a piece of a protein. mRNA is not able to alter or modify a person’s genetic makeup (DNA). The mRNA from a COVID-19 vaccine never enter the nucleus of the cell, which is where our DNA are kept. This means the mRNA does not affect or interact with our DNA in any way. Instead, COVID-19 vaccines that use mRNA work with the body’s natural defenses to safely develop protection (immunity) to disease. Learn more about how COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work.
Does the vaccine have any effect on fertility?
There is no initial evidence or scientific concern that shows the vaccine could impact fertility.
Should I take the vaccine if I have had convalescent plasma or monoclonal antibody therapies?
At this time, there is no data on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in people who received convalescent plasma or monoclonal antibody therapy. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that vaccination be deferred until 90 days after receiving convalescent plasma or monoclonal antibodies.
Can I receive my Flu Shot or another vaccine when I receive my COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes, you can get a flu vaccine at the same time you get a COVID-19 vaccine, including a COVID-19 booster shot.
COVID-19 Information & FAQs
COVID-19 Antibody Treatment
Eligibility
- Talk to your doctor to determine if you are eligible.
COVID-19 Resources
- CDC: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
- WHO: Coronavirus Disease 2019
- Texas DSHS: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
- Hendrick Medical: Coronavirus Information
- 211 A Call for Help: 2-1-1 Texas | Texas Health And Human Services Commission
- COVID-19 Mental Health Support: COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line
- FEMA Rumor Control
- John Hopkins: COVID-19 Information
- CDC: Print Resources in Various Languages
- CDC: Symptom Self-Checker
- COVID-19 Kids Coloring Activity: Time Capsule Coloring Activity (PDF)
- How to Wear a Face Mask: Face Mask Instructions (PDF)
- WHO: COVID-19 Myth Bustering
- CDC: V-Safe Information (PDF)
- CDC: What to Expect After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine (PDF)
- Beware of COVID-19 Vaccine Scams: ConsumerResources.org & FTC.gov
- La Conversación: Latinx doctors, nurses, and promotoras provide facts about COVID-19 Vaccines
- Texas Medical Association: Share the Facts - English (PDF) & Spanish (PDF)
- Texas Department of State Health Services - Videos & Information
Vaccine Fact Sheets
- COVID-19 Instructions - English (PDF)
- COVID-19 Instructions - French (PDF)
- COVID-19 Instructions - Kinyarwanda (PDF)
- COVID-19 Instructions - Nepali (PDF)
- COVID-19 Instructions - Swahili (PDF)
- J&J/Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine EUA Fact Sheet 1-3-22 (PDF)
- Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine EUA Fact Sheet 3-30-22 (PDF)
- Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine EUA Fact Sheet 3-30-22 (PDF)
COVID-19 Refugee Resources
- CDC Print Resources
- American Sign Language (ASL) Video Guides
- COVID-19 Care Guide - English (PDF)
- COVID-19 Care Guide - French (PDF)
- COVID-19 Care Guide - Kinyarwanda (PDF)
- COVID-19 Care Guide - Spanish (PDF)
- COVID-19 Care Guide - Swahili/Congolese (PDF)
- COVID-19 Instructions - English (PDF)
- COVID-19 Instructions - French (PDF)
- COVID-19 Instructions - Kinyarwanda (PDF)
- COVID-19 Instructions - Nepali (PDF)
- COVID-19 Instructions - Swahili (PDF)
- Face Mask Instructions (Swahili) (PDF)
- Face Mask Instructions (Kinyarwanda) (PDF)
- Face Mask Instructions (French) (PDF)
COVID-19 Business Resources
- Abilene Chamber of Commerce: https://www.businessresourceabilene.com/faq-covid-19-businesses
Is there a hotline I can call for more information on COVID-19?
Yes, please call 2-1-1 for all general COVID-19 questions.
The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus, is a new virus that has the potential to cause severe illness, including pneumonia, in some individuals.
What are the symptoms and when do they appear?
People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms – from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. If you have fever, cough, or other symptoms, you might have COVID-19.
Is it possible to have the flu and COVID-19 at the same time?
Yes. It is possible to test positive for flu (as well as other respiratory infections) and COVID-19 at the same time. Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. Testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis.
The best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated every year. Flu vaccines will not prevent COVID-19, but they will reduce your chances of getting flu. See Prevent Seasonal Flu for more information.
How is COVID-19 treated?
There are currently no treatments for COVID-19. People infected with the virus should receive supportive care to relieve symptoms. These include getting lots of rest and drinking plenty of fluids. For severe cases, treatment may require hospitalization.
Who is most vulnerable to COVID-19?
People at increased risk include older adults & people of all ages with certain underlying medical conditions. Visit the CDC website for more information.
I’m healthy. Why should I be concerned about COVID-19?
While young people generally have less risk of death related to COVID-19, they can still have severe cases that can lead to hospitalization and they are also capable of infecting others.
I’m COVID-19 positive and want to breastfeed, how do I do so safely?
Mothers who are breastfeeding and become COVID-19 positive can continue to breastfeed as long as they wash their hands before touching their baby and wear a mask while breastfeeding.
What does “community spread” mean?
Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected. Each health department determines community spread differently based on local conditions.
What is “flattening the curve”?
"Flatten the Curve" to keep the number of sick individuals below the threshold of how many the hospitals can treat.
Is Coronavirus in our water?
Coronavirus has never been detected in water and our water treatment methods help remove or inactivate viruses. Please see the CDC’s website for more information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/water.html
Are hospitals, medical providers and the Health Department required to report positive cases of COVID-19?
Yes. Positive cases of COVID-19 are classified as “immediately reportable” in the state of Texas and any providers, hospitals and labs must report to DSHS or the local health department immediately. DSHS has a notifiable condition hotline that is available 24/7.
Several Texas laws (Health & Safety Code, Chapters 81, 84, and 87) require specific information regarding notifiable conditions be provided to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Health care providers, hospitals, laboratories, schools, and others are required to report patients who are suspected of having a notifiable condition (Chapter 97, Title 25, Texas Administrative Code). Failure to report a notifiable condition is a Class B misdemeanor under the Texas Health and Safety Code, §81.049.
Will the health department tell the public about positive COVID-19 cases?
Yes. The Health Department will report all positive COVID-19 cases to the public, DSHS and the CDC as this is required by law to ensure the health and safety of our community. Community members cannot appropriately protect themselves from COVID-19 if they do not know where COVID-19 is located or how COVID-19 is spreading. We also notify individuals that have come into contact with a positive case via social tracing.
(Health & Safety Code, Chapters 81, 84, and 87) (Chapter 97, Title 25, Texas Administrative Code).
How does COVID-19 spread?
The virus that causes COVID-19 most commonly spreads between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet, or 2 arm lengths). It spreads through respiratory droplets or small particles, such as those in aerosols, produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, sings, talks, or breathes. These particles can be inhaled, and this is thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
Droplets can also land on surfaces and objects and be transferred by touch. A person may get COVID-19 by touching the surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes. Spread from touching surfaces is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
How can I protect myself and others?
- Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth to help protect yourself and others.
- Choose a mask with two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric that fits snugly against the sides of your face.
- Stay 6 feet apart and avoid crowds.
- The more people you are in contact with, the more likely you are to be exposed to COVID-19.
- Avoid indoor spaces as much as possible, particularly ones that aren’t well ventilated.
- You may find it harder to stay 6 feet apart in indoor spaces.
- Wash your hands often.
- Use soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place or hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water aren’t available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Prevent getting sick with these and more tips from CDC website.
Masks
- Masks help prevent you from getting or spreading the virus.
- You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
- Everyone should wear a mask in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
- Masks should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
- Do NOT use a mask meant for a healthcare worker. Currently, surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders.
- Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The mask is not a substitute for social distancing.
For more information about face masks, visit the CDC website.
What is contact tracing?
Contract tracing is the monitoring and notification process our Epidemiology team will use to determine who may have been in close contact with a positive COVID-19 case, although contact tracing is used at times with other infectious diseases. Contact tracing helps us prevent further virus transmission and it allows the contact person to get tested, if deemed necessary.
Contact tracing has 3 main steps:
1. Identify contacts: Someone that tests positive with COVID-19 will be interviewed to find out where they have been and who they have come in close contact with. These individuals are identified as “contacts”.
2. Contact listing: After contacts are identified, they are contacted to inform them of their status. Our Epidemiology team will explain what this means, what actions they should take and what to do if they develop symptoms. Quarantine will be required for COVID-19 contacts. If an entire group of people is potentially exposed, such as a church or a store, we will notify that location of this possible exposure and when the possible exposure might have occurred.
3. Contact follow up: Our Epidemiology team will follow-up with contacts to monitor them for symptoms and request testing, if deemed necessary.
What type of COVID Testing is available?
The Abilene Taylor County Public Health Department does not offer testing at this time. Please call your local pharmacy or primary care physician.
| Molecular (PCR) Test | Antigen Test | Antibody Test | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Also known as... | Diagnostic test, viral test, nuclei acid amplification test (NAAT) | Rapid diagnostic test | Serological test, serology, blood test, serolofy test |
| How the sample is taken... | Nasal or throat swab (most tests), saliva (a few tests) | Nasal or throat swab | Finger stick or blood draw |
| How long it takes to get results... | Same day (some locations) or up to a week | One our or less | Same day (some locations), or 1-3 days |
| Is another test needed... | This test is typically highly accurate and does not need to be repeated | Positive results are usually highly accurate but negative results may need to be confirmed with a molecular test | Sometimes a second antibody test is needed for accurate results |
| What it shows... | Diagnoses active coronavirus infection | Diagnoses active coronavirus infection | Shows if you've been infected by coronavirus in the past |
| What it can't do... | Show if you've ever had COVID-19 or were infected with the coronavirus in the past | Definitely rule out active coronavirus infection. Antigen tests are more likely to miss an active infection compared to molecular tests. Your health care provider may order a molecular test if your antigen test shows a negative result but you have symptoms of COVID-19 | Diagnose active coronavirus infection at the time of the test or show that you do not have COVID-19 |
Should I be tested?
If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and want to get tested, call your healthcare provider first. Most people will have mild illness and can recover at home without medical care and may not need to be tested. CDC has guidance for who should be tested, but decisions about testing are made by state and local health departments and healthcare providers.
What do I do if I think I have COVID-19? How do I get tested?
- Step 1: Call your primary care physician. If you do not have a primary care physician.
- Step 2: Call ahead before going in person to any medical facility.
- Step 3: Don’t go to the local emergency department for COVID-19 testing. The emergency department is only for those who need the most critical care.*
General questions about COVID-19? Call 2-1-1
*If you are experiencing potentially life-threatening problems, call 9-1-1
Can someone test negative and later positive on a viral test for COVID-19?
Yes, it is possible. You may test negative if the sample was collected early in your infection and test positive later during this illness. You could also be exposed to COVID-19 after the test and get infected then. Even if you test negative, you still should take steps to protect yourself and others. See Testing for Current Infection for more information.
What is self-quarantine?
Quarantine is used to keep someone who might have been exposed to COVID-19 away from others. Quarantine helps prevent spread of disease that can occur before a person knows they are sick or if they are infected with the virus without feeling symptoms. People in quarantine should stay home, separate themselves from others & monitor their health. A 14-day quarantine period is still considered the safest way to prevent spreading the infection to others.
The CDC has also identified two alternate quarantine periods as outlined below:
- 10-day quarantine period: No testing required AND only if there are no symptoms during daily monitoring. Monitor symptoms until day 14.
- 7-day quarantine period: If a PCR or antigen test is negative AND there are no symptoms during daily monitoring. The test may be performed on days 5, 6 or 7 of quarantine but not before. If the test is negative, quarantine can end on day 8 with continued daily monitoring for symptoms until day 14.
With both the 7- and 10-day methods of release from quarantine, individuals should continue to monitor themselves closely for any symptoms. Symptoms can include the loss of taste and smell, a headache, diarrhea and vomiting as well as traditional cold and flu symptoms. If COVID symptoms begin after release from quarantine, individuals should immediately isolate again and contact their primary care doctor or the health department for evaluation and possible testing.
For additional information regarding quarantining and caring for yourself at home, please visit Caring for Yourself at Home on the CDC website.
Information Updated as of 12/8/2020
What is Self-Isolation?
Self-isolation is when you remain in your house after you start showing symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive for COVID-19 and are asymptomatic. Monitor your symptoms and do not leave your home except to get medical care. If you need emergency care, call 9-1-1.
You can be around others:
- After 10 days since symptoms first appeared, and
- 24 hours with no fever without the use of fever reducing medications, and
- Other symptoms of COVID-19 are improving (lost of taste and smell may persist for weeks and months after and need not delay the end of isolation)
Have a separate space for the sick person that allows access to a restroom, if possible avoiding travel through common spaces. Have all family members wash hands and avoid contact with the sick person as much as possible. Wear masks to prevent droplets from spreading through the air, and clean high-touch surfaces regularly.
Recovery Time
Recovery from COVID-19 can take a long time, even in young adults with no chronic conditions. 1 in 5 previously healthy young adults (ages 18-34) weren't back to usual health 14-21 days after testing positive. Stay well and protect others by staying 6 feet away from others not living in your household, washing your hands often, and wearing a face covering consistently and correctly while in public. Learn more about this finding on CDC.gov