Not so fast: Those wanting a post-holidays COVID-19 test should wait at least 5 days, experts say
While Wake County testing sites saw long lines, health experts say it may be too soon for some people to get tested for COVID-19.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control said when you should get tested depends on if you were exposed to the virus and if you're showing symptoms.
Those who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 should get tested 5-7 days after their last exposure to the virus.
"If you were to go out and get tested too soon, then of course, it's gonna test negative. But remember the testing anywhere is just a snapshot of what's going on in that particular moment," said Dr. Allen Mask, who has been a member of WRAL's health team for over two decades.
But, the CDC said people who are not fully vaccinated should get tested immediately when they find out they were in close contact with the virus. If the test comes back negative, an unvaccinated person should get re-tested 5-7 days later or immediately if COVID-19 symptoms start to develop.
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Families in downtown Raleigh said they're keeping an eye on any possible symptoms after spending times with loved ones for the holidays.
"I think at home, we've become used to being tested so I haven't had an issue with it," said Jane Crank, who flew from the United Kingdom to Raleigh to spend time with her daughter, Laura, and some other family members.
Crank said she brought along at-home COVID-19 tests — a hard to find items in the U.S. as the omicron variant spreads. But, Crank said the item isn't very hard to find back in the U.K.
"There are plentiful amounts there in the pharmacies," she described.
Now, Crank said she's considering getting tested after gathering outdoors with family.
"I haven't yet [but] I probably will," she said. "We met with family yesterday so I'll probably try to get tested in the next day or so."
But, health experts said timing is key when getting a COVID-19 test. Those who test too soon could get false result.
The Wolstromers said their family of 8, plus grandma, did not test for COVID-19 before gathering for the holidays, but they're keeping tabs on any symptoms.
"We've been sick in the past and gotten tested ... like not feeling well - sore throat or something - and gotten tested and we've never tested positive. Obviously if we started feeling bad, we'd get tested," said Dina Wolstromer.
If you do test positive for the virus, the recommended time for quarantine has changed. On Monday, the CDC shortened the isolation period for people who test positive for the virus from 10 days to 5 days.
Health experts said the change is from research showing virus transmission occurs early the beginning of an infection — generally 1 or 2 days prior to the beginning of symptoms and the 2 to 3 days after.
"These updates ensure people can safely continue their daily lives," said CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky in a statement on Monday.
