You can test positive for COVID-19 up to 90 days after your first positive result. However, if you recovered from the virus but were re-infected during this 90-day window, you may continue to test positive for a longer period of time.
The reliability of your COVID-19 test results depends, in part, on the type of test you choose. Antigen tests, also known as “rapid” tests that can be taken at home or administered at designated testing sites, cannot rule out an infection with a single negative result; under certain circumstances, they can also cause a false positive result to occur.
Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) generally provide more accurate results than antigen tests. This type of test is performed at a laboratory or designated testing site. It can detect viral genetic material up to 90 days after your initial infection, even if you’ve already recovered from the virus, making it difficult to determine whether you’ve been re-infected during this 90-day period.
If you have tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 90 days, it is not recommended that you receive additional NAATs. Instead, use multiple antigen tests spread 48 hours apart; antigen tests should only continue to test positive a few weeks after your initial result.
If you are experiencing long-term effects of COVID-19 infection such as headaches, joint pain, or neurological problems, Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Post-COVID Care Center may be able to help. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 736-8204.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.