Incubation period of COVID: What you need to know
Written by Dr Nelson Lau, MBBS FRACGP, GP & Digital Health Specialist.

Contents

Exploring the incubation period of COVID-19 and common questions
What is an incubation period?
An incubation period is the period of time between being exposed to a virus and the onset of symptoms. It’s commonly referred to as the “silence phase” of an infection—you may be infected but may not appear or feel sick. The time between infection and the appearance of disease can vary widely depending on the particular disease. For instance, it’s one to four days for influenza and several months for hepatitis B. Understanding the incubation period allows us to approximate when someone got infected and when they’d be infectious.Has the incubation period for COVID-19 changed?
Yes, it has. When COVID-19 first emerged (December 2019), the estimated average incubation period was 5–7 days (maximum 14 days). This longer incubation period also meant that people could carry the virus and infect others for several days without realising it. But as the virus mutated, its characteristics changed, too. Variants such as Omicron have been associated with shorter incubation periods of 2–4 days. This shift is a sign that the virus is evolving to spread faster and more efficiently. That shorter incubation period means people may be contagious sooner after exposure, making it an even harder epidemiological puzzle to solve to contain an outbreak.Also read: Long COVID: Symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options
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What is the new COVID-19 incubation period?
The incubation time for the most recent variants, such as Omicron and the subvariants, is around 2–4 days. That shorter time frame underscores the need for speedy testing and isolation to slow transmission.How long does it take to develop COVID after exposure?
Most people infected will experience symptoms 2–4 days following infection of COVID-19, but for some, it can take a week. It’s also worth mentioning that some people never experience symptoms but can still pass the virus, particularly in the first few days of infection. For this reason, testing is very important. If you’ve been exposed:- Test again after 2–3 days: This is when the virus is most likely to be detectable if you’ve been infected.
- Test again in 5 days: A second test is essential, and very importantly if your first test was negative.
Are you still infectious after 5 days of COVID?
It depends. Most people are no longer contagious after 5 days according to CDC guidelines, provided they’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications. However, some people may also keep shedding the virus and spreading it even beyond this duration. They recommend wearing a mask for an extra 5 days as a precaution. Keep in mind that everyone’s immune response varies. A negative rapid test is a strong indicator that you are less likely to transmit the virus but doesn’t guarantee it.How long should you stay clear of someone with COVID?
If someone in your household or immediate circle has a confirmed COVID-19 test:- Stay away for at least 5 days: This is when they’re usually the most contagious.
- Monitor for symptoms over a period of 10 days: Symptoms may develop anytime between the initial exposure and that period.
- Wear a mask when around other people: This reduces the risk that you will spread the virus if you happen to have it, particularly while you’re unknowingly shedding the virus in the early days of infection.
Also read: How long are you contagious with COVID?
What you should know as a vaccinated person during COVID
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of taste or smell
- Body aches
- Headache
When to consult a doctor?
Get help if you have:- A sustained high fever (above 39°C)
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Intense chest pain or pressure
- Drowsiness or lack of alertness
- Symptoms that become much worse after several days
Oral antivirals for COVID-19 treatment: Bringing science to the bedside
Oral antiviral drugs—including Paxlovid and Molnupiravir—can help lower the risk of severe illness and hospitalization. These treatments are most effective when initiated within the first 5 days from symptom onset.How to access antivirals?
- Visit your doctor: Antivirals are prescription medications.
- Get tested: To start treatment, you need a positive COVID-19 test.
- Review your health history: Some medications or health conditions can have an interaction with antivirals, and it’s essential to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Last thought
Understanding the incubation period of COVID-19 and what it means for you is important in keeping you and others safe. From isolating after exposure to staying up to date on the latest guidance—and getting treated with things like oral antivirals—small things can make a really big difference. As COVID-19 continues to change, however, if you remain alert and resolute, you can confidently traverse this dynamic landscape.Need a script instantly? Get your prescription sorted within 15 minutes.
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Disclaimer
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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Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
For urgent medical help & in case of emergency,
call 000.
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