If you have COVID-19 symptoms, the CDC recommends taking an at-home test immediately. If you were exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should test at least five days after exposure, even if you don’t have symptoms. If your first rapid at-home test is negative, test again after 24-48 hours.
You can also take an at-home test as a precautionary measure before attending an indoor gathering. Consider testing immediately before attending an indoor event or gathering, especially if you are at risk of severe disease or if you will be around others who are at high risk, such as immunocompromised people or older adults.
Updated November 17, 2022