<p><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/covid19coronavirusdisease2019.html">COVID-19</a> (coronavirus disease 2019) is a disease caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2. There are two types of tests for this virus:</p> <ul> <li>A <strong>viral test</strong> tells you if you have a current infection. Viral tests can either be rapid tests or laboratory tests: <ul> <li><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/rapid-tests/">Rapid tests</a> can be done in minutes. They are often antigen tests, which look for specific proteins from the virus. Some rapid tests are self-tests which you can do at home.</li> <li>Laboratory tests can take days to complete and include <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/pcr-tests/">PCR tests</a>.</li> </ul> </li> <li>An <strong>antibody (serology) test</strong> might tell you if you had a past infection.</li> </ul> <p>If you need a COVID-19 test, you can:</p> <ul> <li>Buy a self-test online or at a store. Make sure that the test you buy has been authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).</li> <li>Check your state or local health department's website for information on testing in your area.</li> <li>Contact your health care provider.</li> </ul> <p>Even if your COVID-19 viral test is negative (the test did not detect the virus), you should still take steps to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html">protect yourself and others</a>.</p> <p class="">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</p>