COVID-19 Testing Recommendations
|
Purpose |
Timing |
COVID-19 NAAT (PCR) |
COVID-19/Flu Multiplex NAAT (PCR) |
Rapid COVID-19 Antigen |
COVID-19 Antibody |
| Evaluate patients with COVID-19 symptoms | Test immediately |
(if result is negative, multiple tests may be needed) |
Not applicable | ||
| Evaluate patients exposed to COVID-19 but with no symptoms | Wait 5 days after exposure before testing | Not applicable |
(if result is negative, multiple tests may be needed) |
Not applicable | |
| Meet travel requirements | As indicated | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | |
| Screening program (e.g., work, school) | As indicated | Not applicable |
(if result is negative, multiple tests may be needed) |
Not applicable | |
| Evaluate for prior COVID-19 | As indicated | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable |
High accuracy Moderate accuracy Low accuracy
Post-COVID Laboratory Testing Considerations in Accordance with CDC Guidelines*
Post-COVID conditions are associated with a spectrum of physical, social, and psychological consequences, as well as functional limitations that can present substantial challenges to patient wellness and quality of life.
Basic Diagnostic Laboratory Testing
To be considered for post-COVID conditions
| Current COVID-19 |
COVID-19 NAAT and/or Antigen Test |
| Prior COVID-19 |
COVID-19 Serology |
| Blood count |
CBC |
| Iron |
Iron studies |
| Metabolic profile |
CMP |
| Liver function |
CMP |
| Inflammatory markers |
|
| Vitamin deficiencies |
|
| Thyroid function |
|
| Category |
|---|
Specialized Diagnostic Laboratory Testing
To be considered for post-COVID conditions
| Rheumatological disorders |
|
|
Coagulation disorders |
|
| Myocardial injury |
|
| Differentiate symptoms of cardiac versus pulmonary origin |
|
| Category |
|---|
* At this time, no laboratory test can definitively distinguish post-COVID conditions from other diseases.
Reference: CDC Post-COVID Conditions: Information for Healthcare Providers