Advice to patients following a COVID-19 swab Low risk people with symptoms To support the continued efforts to keep COVID-19 out of New Zealand, people with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 are being offered a test. This is voluntary. The principle is that by continuing to test people in the community, we would detect any cases early which can then be isolated and contained. You have been swabbed as you have symptoms. The result is available within 2-5 days; however, this time may vary as it depends on how many samples the laboratory receives each day. Tests from the hospital and from higher risk people, such as those in managed isolation, are processed first. You will receive a phone call from Toi Te Ora Public Health if you have a positive swab. Your general practice will notify you if you have a negative test result. If you are concerned, please get in touch with your general practice for the result. Please ensure that the team who have seen you today have the correct phone number and contact details for you.
When can I return to work/school? As your test is only for surveillance purposes you can return to work as soon as you feel better. The doctor or nurse who has assessed you should be able to tell you how long this might be. Sometimes the symptoms of a cold or flu, such as a cough or runny nose, can linger for days if not weeks, even if you are feeling better. In this instance, a swab can be helpful in reassuring you that you do not have COVID-19, while also allowing you to return to work. It is important that you do not go to work or school if you feel unwell.
Is there any treatment I can take? Simple pain killers like paracetamol can make you feel more comfortable while your body fights the infection. If your doctor or nurse finds a bacterial cause of your illness, such as a chest or throat infection, antibiotics may be required. If you start to feel worse rather than better, call your General Practice or Healthline on 0800 358 5453. For more information, please refer to the NZ Government Covid-19 website: www.covid19.govt.nz
Version 2
Sourced from EBPHA/Amended WBOP PHO
21 August 2020