Have you tested positive for Covid-19 using an at-home rapid antigen test on Martha's Vineyard? Do you have questions about Covid-19?
Report your positive test or ask questions here to protect your family, friends & community.
What if I test positive for Covid-19?
If you test positive, you must isolate for at least 5 days, including from those in your household. If you are asymptomatic or symptoms have significantly improved by Day 5, you may return to work but must wear a mask around others at all times, including household members. Inform any close contacts about their potential exposure. Close contacts are those exposed to you within two days prior to testing positive or developing symptoms.
When you have symptoms and an OTC test is positive, there is no need to confirm the result with a lab-based test.
For Massachusetts state isolation guidelines, click here.
What if I test negative for Covid-19?
A negative result can mean either you have not been infected, or that your viral load is not (yet) high enough for the test to pick up. It does gives some assurance that, at the time of your test, you are not (very) infectious to others.
Please use extra caution (including wearing a high-quality mask), avoid crowded indoor spaces, and keep your distance from others if any of the following are true:
- You plan to visit someone who is older, unvaccinated, or immune-compromised
- You have been exposed to someone who has tested positive, or
- You have symptoms consistent with Covid-19.
Do not automatically assume that a negative test means you are not infected. If you have been exposed and you have symptoms, assume you are infected and isolate from others, even if an initial home test is negative. In this situation, get a PCR test by making an appointment at MV Hospital (508-684-4500).
The virus is not easily detected in early stages with a home test, and a negative result should not give you a false sense of security.
What if I am a "close contact" of someone who tested positive for Covid-19?
Close contacts who are asymptomatic and have had either a booster or the second dose within the last five months do not need to quarantine. You must wear a mask around others for 10 days (including at home), and monitor for symptoms. If you develop symptoms, even mild symptoms, you should immediately isolate and be tested.
Otherwise, please test 5 days after exposure. OTC tests are a good first option for testing. If you are symptomatic but test negative with an OTC test, you may wish to schedule a PCR test. Click here to learn how to make an appointment at MV Hospital (508-684-4500).
If you are unvaccinated, asymptomatic and a close contact, quarantine for 10 days. You may leave quarantine on day 6 after exposure if you have had a negative PCR test at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital (508-684-4500). You must wear a mask around others, including those in your household, for the full 10 days of the quarantine period.
For Massachusetts state isolation guidelines, click here.
How do I use an at-home rapid Covid-19 antigen test?
Watch the video below for instructions on how to use the Quidel QuickVue At-Home OTC COVID-19 Test:
