Should I be tested for coronavirus (COVID-19)?

NEW DEVELOPMENT*: You might have heard that access to COVID-19 testing is being expanded. While some states like Minnesota are ramping up efforts to expand access within the next few weeks, others still have limited testing. Minnesotans can visit https://mn.gov/covid19 for the latest in testing updates.

*These guidelines apply to residents of Minnesota, if you live elsewhere we recommend contacting your local healthcare provider or state health department website for testing guidelines and locations near you.

What should I do?

As with other viral respiratory infections, most people with mild symptoms will get better on their own and can be treated from home. If you’re experiencing cold, cough, or flu-like symptoms you have options.

Option 1: Stay home and monitor symptoms

If your fever, cough or other respiratory symptoms are mild, please stay home. And if they worsen, you can always come back and we’ll help you re-evaluate.

And because you have these symptoms, you should remain in home isolation until you meet these 3 conditions:

  • 7 days have passed since your symptoms started.
  • No fever for at least 72 hours without using fever reducing medicine.
  • Your respiratory symptoms have improved.

Also, please notify those living in the same household or with whom you’ve had close contact since developing symptoms that they should assume they’ve been exposed.

  • To help contain the spread of this virus, they should isolate themselves for 14 days from first exposure even if they do not have symptoms.

Symptoms to watch & early warning signs

Option 2: Seek online care

If you would feel better with a more comprehensive assessment of your unique situation, including a treatment plan and 24/7 nurse practitioner support, then we can help you manage your symptoms at home.
Start an online visit

Option 3: Seek care in-person for severe symptoms

If your symptoms start to feel severe, (like worsening shortness of breath or wheezing) you should go to the nearest urgent care or emergency center for evaluation and treatment. Make sure to call ahead for directions on where to go and what to do when you arrive.

I don’t have symptoms, but I may have been exposed to COVID-19.

While you may not currently be experiencing cold, cough, or respiratory symptoms, if you’ve had close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, stay home and isolate yourself for 14 days from first exposure. Many experience mild or no symptoms and can carry to others who are at higher risk for getting very sick.

What should I do?

  • Stay home and isolate yourself for 14 days from first exposure, even if you do not have symptoms.
  • Watch for these common symptoms