COVID-19 Testing
updated 11-23-2022
General Testing Information
Knowing whether or not you’re infected with coronavirus can help protect not only your own health, but the health of our entire community — so it’s important to get tested if you think you have COVID-19.
- Who should get tested for COVID-19?
- How do I pre-register for a COVID-19 test?
- Where are the COVID-19 testing sites and locations?
- I’ve been tested. How do I get my results?
- Is there guidance regarding quarantine & isolation periods?
- When can I return to work?
- You’ve tested positive for COVID-19. Now what?
Self Tests
Self-testing offers fast results. Self-tests are one of several options for testing for the virus that causes COVID-19 and may be more convenient than laboratory-based tests and point-of-care tests. Consider keeping self-tests at home or where you may need them. Learn More
Testing is safe.
Testing sites are designed to keep you and it’s healthcare workers safe. Sometimes you stay in your car. Other sites will screen you before you come indoors.
Testing is important.
Knowing whether or not you’re infected with coronavirus can help protect not only your own health, but the health of our entire community — so it’s important to get tested if you think you have COVID-19.
You've tested positive for COVID-19. Now what?
- Have you tested positive for COVID-19? Click Here
- Have you been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19? Click Here
- Do you have COVID-19 Symptoms? Click Here
Information on Long COVID or Post-COVID Conditions
Some people who have been infected with COVID-19 can experience long-term effects known as Long COVID or Post-COVID Conditions
Find a Testing Location
There are testing locations operational all throughout the state. Click here to find a testing location near you.
Who should get tested?
The Department of Health strongly encourages the following groups to get tested:
- Symptomatic people displaying the COVID-19 symptoms of cough, fever, shortness of breath, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and/or loss of taste or smell.
- Asymptomatic people who are close contacts or household members of New Mexico residents who have already tested positive for the coronavirus;
- Asymptomatic people who live or work in congregate settings such as detention centers and long-term care facilities; and
- Patients who are scheduled for surgery and whose provider has advised them to get tested before the procedure.
How do I pre-register for a COVID-19 test?
Each COVID-19 test site has different requirements and pre-registration options. Find a testing location to view pre-registration options by click here.
Where are the COVID-19 testing sites and locations?
Providers across New Mexico offer safe screening and testing for COVID-19.
I've been tested. How do I get my results?
You can lookup your results online at https://cvresults.nmhealth.org
- Results are updated in the portal twice each day at 9am and 6pm. If you don’t find your results please check again after these times.
- Results are tested and returned between two and four days after the specimen is collected. You will not see results the day it was collected.
Please be patient as everyone, from the collection sites to the testing laboratories and dissemination staff, are working as fast as they can to provide you with your results.
Is there guidance regarding quarantine & isolation periods?
NM DOH guidance on quarantine and isolation: https://cv.nmhealth.org/how-to-isolate-when-positive/
CDC Information on isolation and quarantine: COVID-19 Quarantine and Isolation | CDC
When can I return to work?
In general, an employee may return to work after they have completed appropriate isolation (for COVID-19 cases) and quarantine (for COVID-19 exposures). Check with your employer to see if they have any additional COVID-19 policies in place.
Other information you may find helpful
Are you up-to-date: Stay up-to-date with Your COVID-19 Vaccines| CDC
Information on isolation and quarantine: COVID-19 Quarantine and Isolation | CDC
Testing Positive for COVID-19 or Close Contact Guidance: https://cv.nmhealth.org/how-to-isolate-when-positive/
Guidance for healthcare workers: Interim Guidance for Managing Healthcare Personnel with SARS-CoV-2 Infection or Exposure to SARS-CoV-2 | CDC
Travel guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html
NMDOH does not provide return to work or work excuse letters. We recommend that employers use the recommendations above to determine when it is safe for them to resume regular activities, including work. If an employer needs assistance making this determination, they may call the NMDOH COVID-19 hotline at 1-855-600-3453.
You've tested positive for COVID-19. Now what?
If you are experiencing severe difficulty breathing or other symptoms that make it difficult to care for yourself at home, call 911 right away.
Symptoms of COVID-19 may include cough, fever, upset stomach, headache, body aches, and/or loss of taste or smell. For isolation instructions, if you were notified you are positive for COVID-19, click the link below.
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