How long are you contagious with COVID?
Written by Dr Nelson Lau, MBBS FRACGP, GP & Digital Health Specialist.

Contents

COVID-19 peak contagiousness

- 1–2 days before symptom onset
- Two to three days after first symptoms appear
COVID-19 prolonged contagiousness
Ultimately, your infectiousness will depend on many things, including your immune response, how severe your symptoms have been, and whether you are vaccinated. Though these factors may yield small variations, here’s a rough summary:- Mild to moderate cases: Most people are contagious 5–10 days after symptom onset.
- Severe cases or people with compromised immune systems: You might be contagious for 20 days or longer.
Also read: How long does COVID-19 last and what to expect?
Experiencing these symptoms? Speak with a doctor within 15 minutes.
How long will you test positive?
Are there multiple types of COVID-19 tests? Here’s what you need to know about the two primary types of tests:PCR Tests
- These tests are sensitive and detect small amounts of viral genetic material.
- After you clear the infection, you may continue to test positive for weeks—or even months.
- A positive PCR test does not necessarily mean that you are still contagious; it’s just evidence of leftover viral material in your system.
Rapid antigen tests
- These tests are more accurate in detecting live infections because they track proteins produced by live viruses.
- A positive antigen test is a more reliable sign that you are still contagious.
- If using rapid tests to decide when to end isolation, testing on day 5 and again on day 7 can help affirm that you no longer are contagious.
Which variants are more contagious?
Variants such as Omicron and its subvariants, for example, XBB, are far more easily transmitted than the earlier strains of COVID-19. These variants spread quickly because they escape some immunity from vaccination or previous infection. Although these variants are highly transmissible, they do not inherently result in more severe disease for most people. The bright side is that vaccines are still good at preventing severe disease and reducing hospitalisations with a new variant.How long should you stay away from other people after a positive COVID test?
Isolation is a key measure for preventing COVID-19 transmission. Isolating as recommended protects the vulnerable and helps mitigate outbreaks. As of March 2024, health agencies such as the CDC recommend that people can return to their usual routines once they have been fever-free without medication for 24 hours and if their other symptoms are improving. The prior strict five-day isolation requirement has long since been relaxed. After you leave isolation, you should wear a mask around other people for an additional 5 days. If you still have symptoms—especially a fever—you should stay in isolation until your fever breaks and other symptoms improve. For people who are severely ill or immunocompromised, isolation may be necessary for up to 20 days. Seek advice from a health care provider for individualised guidance.Can you be contagious without testing positive for COVID?
Yes, you can test positive and not be contagious. This is most commonly observed with PCR tests, which can continue to pick up residual fragments of virus in your body even long after you are infectious. Rapid antigen tests, by contrast, are more likely to show whether you continue to transmit the virus. A positive antigen test typically does reflect the presence of live virus—suggesting you’re still contagious.When to get a doctor’s help?
Symptoms of COVID-19 range from mild to severe. Most cases don’t need medical care, but there are some warning signs that should make you look for help right away. Contact your health care provider or get emergency care if you have:- Difficulty breathing
- Constant pain or pressure in the chest
- Disorientation or trouble staying awake
- Bluish lips or face
How is COVID-19 diagnosed?
Methods of diagnosis for COVID-19 usually include:- Symptom evaluation: Typical symptoms are fever, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell.
- Testing: A positive PCR or rapid antigen test shows that the virus has entered. If you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms, testing is the only way to be certain. Rapid tests yield results in minutes, while PCR tests take longer but are more sensitive.
What are the complications of COVID-19?
Most of those infected with COVID-19 recover without too many lasting issues. But complications can arise, particularly for those with underlying health conditions that make them more vulnerable to the disease. Common complications include:- Long COVID: Persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, and brain fog weeks or months after recovery.
- Breathing problems: Severe cases can result in pneumonia or long-term lung injury.
- Heart and neurological effects: Myocarditis or strokes, both rare but serious complications.
Also read: Long COVID: Symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options
Can COVID-19 be prevented?
Preventing COVID-19 is still one of the best tools in our toolbox. Here’s how to reduce your risk of infection:- Be Vaccinated: Vaccines prevent severe illness and reduce the spread of the virus.
- Mask Up: If indoors, in a crowded bus, etc.
- Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands often and disinfect surfaces that are used frequently.
- Test and Isolate: If you’re feeling sick or have been exposed, stay home and get tested.
Does vaccination reduce contagion?
Yes, it does. Getting vaccinated not only protects you from serious illness, it also lowers your likelihood of spreading the virus. Generally, vaccinated people:- Are contagious for less time.
- Carry a lower viral load than the unvaccinated.
Updated isolation guidelines
New isolation guidelines highlight a symptom-based approach:- Exit isolation after you’ve been fever-free for 24 hours and your symptoms are improving.
- If you’re around high-risk people, have rapid antigen tests confirm that you’re no longer contagious.
Final thoughts
COVID-19 is most transmissible during the early stages of the illness, and most people are no longer infectious after 5–10 days. Rapid antigen tests and symptom monitoring can help inform when it’s safe to end isolation. Vaccination is a vital protective measure, not only diminishing the severity of the disease but also shortening the time one is contagious. Following the guidelines for isolation is critical, and following precautions to protect against the spread of COVID-19 will protect the community. Be safe, be aware, and take care of yourself and those around you.Need a script instantly? Get your prescription sorted within 15 minutes.
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This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
For urgent medical help & in case of emergency,
call 000.
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