COVID-19 Testing

As of September 4, 2025:

When to Get Tested

Here’s when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (the CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) says you should consider getting a COVID-19 test:

• If you have symptoms, test immediately.
• If you were exposed to COVID-19 and do not have symptoms, consider testing before contact with someone at high risk for severe COVID-19, especially if you are in an area with increasing infection rates.

Where to Take a Test 

You can take a COVID-19 test at home or at an Urgent Care clinic. Your health care provider can help you decide which type of test is right for you.

At-Home Tests

At-⁠home rapid antigen tests are available for sale at local pharmacies and retailers such as CVS, Walgreens, Target, and many grocery store pharmacies.

What if I test positive for COVID-19?

Keep track of your symptoms. Symptoms can vary.

• If you are asymptomatic or experiencing mild symptoms: Stay home to slow the spread and self-isolate at home to protect your family. Be sure everyone is following CDC or Massachusetts Department of Public Health prevention practices including mask-wearing, cough covering and hand washing. Be sure to get plenty of fluids, stay hydrated, and get lots of rest. Check in with your provider regarding treatment.
• If you have moderate symptoms: Self-isolate at home and call your doctor/provider (or an urgent care center) to discuss treatment options.
• If you have severe symptoms and are experiencing a medical emergency: Call 9-1-1.

What does it mean if I have a negative COVID-19 test result?

A negative test result means that you probably were not infected with COVID-19 at the time your sample was collected. You should continue taking steps to protect yourself from COVID-19, including wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing and getting vaccinated. If you test early, you may not yet have enough virus in your body to test positive, so consider retesting later.