Testing for COVID-19
When should I test for COVID-19?
You should test for COVID-19 if:
- you have symptoms, even if mild.
- you are living with someone who has COVID-19 (test regularly for at least 7 days, even if you do not have symptoms).
It is especially important to test early if you are at higher risk of severe illness or you are eligible for oral antiviral treatment, or you are in contact with or work with people who are at higher risk or eligible for antiviral treatment.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms and test negative, stay at home until you are well.
Find more information about what to do if you test positive and treatments for COVID-19.
Which COVID-19 test should I get?
Rapid antigen test
You should use a rapid antigen test if:
- you are at low risk of severe COVID-19 illness but have COVID-19 symptoms
- you want to check if you have COVID-19 before attending a large event or visiting people at higher risk of severe illness
PCR test
PCR testing is recommended for people with COVID-19 symptoms and test negative using a rapid antigen test who are:
- at higher risk of severe illness
- eligible for oral antiviral treatment.
If you are at higher risk, make a plan with your GP or healthcare professional about what you should do if you get symptoms.
Your doctor may give you a referral for a PCR test or give you a PCR self-collect test to use if you get symptoms.
PCR testing is available without a GP referral at select dedicated SA Pathology sites.
Full-panel respiratory testing is available by GP referral at select pathology collection centres across metropolitan and regional South Australia.