About rapid antigen tests
Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are the preferred means of testing for COVID-19 for most Victorians.
They are quick and accurate, particularly if you have symptoms or if you have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19.
When to take a rapid antigen test
You should take a rapid antigen test:
if you have symptoms of COVID-19 infection, no matter how mild
if you are a household or close contact of someone who has COVID-19
if you are a social contact of someone who has COVID-19. This includes workplaces and educational facilities
before attending a crowded event, social gathering or visiting people at risk of serious illness, for example, when a test is required to attend a hospital or other health care setting. This is because COVID-19 can spread before you have symptoms. You can help protect others by checking you are negative before leaving home
as part of a screening program, such as one organised by your employer.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms and you return a negative rapid antigen test you should stay home until your symptoms go away and repeat rapid antigen testing over the next several days.
Rapid antigen tests are better able to detect COVID-19 when repeated over successive days but do not detect other respiratory viruses, such as influenza.
If you test positive for COVID-19, you must isolate for at least 5 days or up to 7 days. The number of days you must isolate depends on whether you still have symptoms. Find out more about your legal requirements on Checklist for COVID cases.
You must report your positive rapid antigen test result online or by calling the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398.
You may leave isolation seven days after you took your test, but it is strongly recommended you stay home if you still have symptoms.
Call a doctor if you are unwell or go to hospital if it is an emergency.
If you have symptoms but cannot access a rapid antigen test, you should stay home until you can do so.
You can get a free rapid antigen testing kit from some state testing sites. Wear a high-quality, well-fitted face mask at testing sites and travel there by private vehicle, if possible.
Find out where to get a free rapid antigen test on Get a COVID-19 test page.
