For official up to date information on the coronavirus, visit the government Coronavirus (Covid-19) page.

This article contains information such as:

What to do while you wait for your covid test result

How long it takes for a rapid lateral flow covid test result

How long it takes for a PCR covid test result

What to do if you test positive for covid

How to get a covid vaccine

 

How long it takes to get your coronavirus test results back will depend on the type of test you received. There are two main types of coronavirus tests available in the UK:

 

Both of these tests are available for free in the UK. You may buy a private covid-19 test however we strongly encourage the use of the free tests provided by the government.

Each test has suitability criteria for covid-19 testing which will be outlined in this article.

Get your free government covid rapid lateral flow test here

Get your free government covid PCR test here

 

While you wait for your result

Stay at home and self isolate while you wait for your test results. You may have the coronavirus without any symptoms and pass it on unintentionally if you fail to do so. You should follow the NHS full guide on how to self isolate. Read A Timeline of Coronavirus Symptoms if you are unsure of Coronavirus symptoms at different stages of the infection.

While you wait for your results, you may want to make a list of close contacts to ensure if your test comes back positive you can inform them as soon as possible so they may get tested.

 

How long for a rapid lateral flow test result?

This is the back of the throat/ nostril swab test. As the name suggests, these tests provide results rapidly, only taking around 30 minutes for a home test. For an on-site test, you should receive your results via email or text within 2 hours. While being fast, they can be less accurate than PCR tests and as such are not suitable for travel testing.

How Long To Get Covid Test Results?

Once you get your results for your rapid lateral flow test you should report your results regardless of whether it is positive or negative.


Who can get a rapid lateral flow covid test?

These tests are only suitable for those who:

  • Do NOT have current covid-19 symptoms (use PCR test instead)
  • Are over 11 years old
  • Have not been told to self-isolate (use PCR test instead)


How long for a PCR Covid test result?

This is the swab deep inside of your nose and sinuses test. Majority of people will get their results in 24 hours to 3 days. You will receive your results via text or email. 

The time it takes to receive your PCR test result will largely depend on the volume of tests undertaken at the facility. A large volume of tests may result in a slower turnaround, although most people will get their results within 24 hours.

If you have not received your results after 6 days it is recommended to make a free call 119 between 7 am to 11 pm to follow up on your results.

Since PCR testing is conducted on-site by a health team they will contact you with more information about what you may need to if you’ve tested positive.


Who can get a PCR covid test?

These tests are suitable for those who:

  • Have been in contact with a person who has returned a positive test
  • Have been asked to get a test by NHS Test and Trace
  • Have been told to get tested by a health professional
  • Have returned a positive rapid lateral flow test
  • Have had an unclear previous test result
  • Has someone in the household displaying symptoms


What to do if you test positive for covid-19

Rapid lateral flow

If you or anyone in your households test returns positive you must all self-isolate according to the NHS guidelines immediately. The person who tested positive must then go and get a PCR test to confirm the result.

PCR

You will be provided more information by the testing centre for the full details of what you’ll need to do. You will likely be asked to spend between 10 to 14 days in self-isolation. It is important you do this as you can be fined if you do not self-isolate after returning a positive PCR test result.


How to get a Covid vaccine

Half of the UK population have received their vaccination already, but many more are required to reach safer levels. To book your coronavirus vaccine, please visit the NHS website.