Testing and what to do if you have COVID-19

How to get a test if you think you might have COVID-19, and what to do if you test positive.

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COVID-19 update – 7 December 2023

COVID-19 transmission remains at moderate to high levels in the NSW community.

Read the latest data from NSW Health.

Please stay home if you have any cold or flu symptoms. Wear a mask if you need to leave home.

Learn how to keep yourself and others COVID-safe.

A change to the PCR results service

The NSW Health Pathology COVID-19 Results Service and Results Portal closed on 31 October 2023.

This means that if you have had a COVID-19 PCR test through a NSW Health provider, you will need to follow up your results with your general practitioner or the treating clinician who requested the test. Results will no longer be provided by SMS or via the Results Portal.

Private pathologies may vary.  Ask them about receiving your results when you have your test. 

If you have used the Results Portal on NSW Health Pathology’s website before, you will be able to access your historical results until 31 December 2023.

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Getting a test for COVID-19 

Which COVID test should I do?

Guidance on which test is best for you.

Information for people exposed to COVID-19

Understand your risk and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones. 

Symptoms and how it spreads

Learn about the symptoms of COVID-19, when they appear and how it spreads.

Advice for higher risk groups

Some people are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Find information on how to protect yourself and others from becoming very unwell.

PCR tests

If you're at higher risk of severe illness, talk to your doctor about PCR tests.

protect yourself and others

Managing your COVID-19 illness

What to do if you test positive

Advice on how you can safely manage mild symptoms at home.

Antivirals

Find out if you're eligible for antiviral medicines and how to access them.

Long COVID

Information on long-term symptoms you may experience due to  COVID-19, and where to seek support.

COVID-19 guidance for families

Advice for parents and carers on COVID safety in schools and early childhood education services.

Advice for workers

What to do if you test positive and information about returning to work.

Guidance for businesses

What you need to do as an employer to manage the risk to colleagues and customers.

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