Note: Your progress in watching these videos WILL NOT be tracked. These training videos are the same videos you will experience when you take the full Coronavirus COVID-19 for Healthcare Workers Level 2 (VTQ) program. You may begin the training for free at any time to start officially tracking your progress toward your certificate of completion.

  1. Types of Test result

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COVID-19 Test Results: Negative, Positive, and Unclear

Negative Result

A negative COVID-19 test result indicates that the virus was not detected. You can cease self-isolation if the following conditions are met:

  • Everyone you live with who had symptoms tests negative
  • Everyone in your support bubble with symptoms tests negative
  • You were not instructed to self-isolate for 14 days by NHS Test and Trace
  • You feel well; if unwell, stay home until you recover

If you experience diarrhoea or vomiting, stay home until 48 hours after symptoms have ceased. Health or care workers should consult their employer before returning to work.

Positive Result

A positive COVID-19 test result confirms an active infection. In this case, you must commence self-isolation immediately. Follow these guidelines:

  • If tested due to symptoms, self-isolate for at least 7 days from symptom onset
  • If tested without symptoms, self-isolate for 7 days from the test date
  • Anyone you live with or in your support bubble must self-isolate for 14 days

You'll need to provide details of recent whereabouts and close contacts.

Unclear Result

An unclear, void, borderline, or inconclusive COVID-19 test result indicates uncertainty. Take the following steps:

  • Arrange another test promptly if faced with this result
  • If symptomatic, schedule a retest within 5 days of symptom onset
  • If unable to retest promptly, self-isolate for at least 7 days from symptom onset
  • Household members and support bubble should self-isolate for 14 days