COVID-19, cold or flu? Take a test to find out
Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should get tested and avoid contact with others as much as possible until they get their results.
If you were exposed to COVID-19, but don’t have symptoms, the CDC recommends getting tested at least five full days after your last exposure. See their full guidelines on what to do if you were exposed to COVID-19 for more details.
How to get a COVID-19 test
At-home testing kits are widely available for sale at many locations, including grocery stories and pharmacies. Beginning Sept. 25, 2023, You may also order up to four free at-home tests from the federal government. COVID-19 tests are also available at our Indigo Online Urgent care locations. You’ll need to have an in person or virtual visit with one of our Indigo providers before receiving a test. In-person visits can be booked ahead of time. Walk-ins are also welcome.
You can find other testing locations on the Washington State Department of Health’s website.
You should not visit the emergency department for COVID-19 testing unless you are seriously sick.
If you are at high risk of severe health complications from COVID-19, it is important to call your health care provider right away to discuss testing and treatment options. Those at high risk include:
- People 60 and older
- People with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease
- People with weakened immune systems
- People who are pregnant
Anyone experiencing severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, should call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department.
What if I test positive for COVID-19?
Most people who test positive for COVID-19 recover at home. However, it’s important to monitor your symptoms and contact your provider if they get worse. Follow the CDC’s guidelines for what to do if you are sick, which includes details on how many days you should isolate from others and when you can resume your normal day-to-day activities.
If you test positive with an at-home test, it is safe to assume you have COVID-19 — you do not need to seek out a lab test for confirmation.