This test is authorized for use in patients suspected of having COVID-19 and must be performed within seven days of the onset of symptoms. It can also be done at any time after that if the patient's condition worsens or improves. The purpose of this test is to diagnose COVID-19 as early as possible. The more samples you give, the more chance you have of getting positive results. Results may take several days to weeks after you give a sample so keep this in mind when choosing when to get tested. You should not wait until after your fever has gone away to get tested. If you do feel sick enough to seek medical attention, call your doctor before coming in so they can ask you questions about your symptoms and tell you what needs to be done next. This will help them identify potential cases of COVID-19 earlier. It is important to remember that a negative test result does not mean that you are free from infection. A second negative test result one week later means that you are no longer contagious. A third negative test result eight hours after the first two tests means you do not have COVID-19 anymore. However, a third negative test result one month after the first two tests means that you are free from infection.