COVID-19

COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by a virus discovered in 2019. It most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel like a cold, flu or pneumonia. Sometimes, it can affect other parts of your body. Most people have mild symptoms, but some people can get very sick.1 Fortunately, COVID-19 vaccines are a safe, effective way to help prevent serious illness.2

Let’s learn more about COVID-19 symptoms, testing and vaccines. Sign in to your health plan account or call the number on your member ID card to find information about how some member benefits may have changed with the end of the public health emergency on May 11, 2023.

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COVID-19 symptoms 

You may experience a wide range of symptoms from COVID-19. Your symptoms may vary based on your vaccination status and the COVID-19 variant you have. (Viruses change over time to create new versions called variants.) Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Possible symptoms may include the following.3

Fever or chills

Cough

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Fatigue

Muscle or body aches

Headache

New loss of taste or smell

Sore throat

Congestion or runny nose

Nausea or vomiting

Diarrhea

The list doesn’t include all possible symptoms. Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) symptoms of COVID-19 page for the most recent information.

COVID-19 safety and protection

If you tested positive for COVID-19, were exposed to the virus or want to know the most recent guidelines for isolation and protecting yourself and others from getting sick, view the CDC guidelines for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.

COVID-19 frequently asked questions

Here are answers to some common questions you may have, including testing for COVID-19 and specifics about the COVID-19 vaccine. Since vaccine guidance may change over time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the best resource for information about COVID-19 vaccines.

What are the types of COVID-19 tests?

There are two main types of tests for the virus that causes COVID-19: nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) and antigen tests. Read on to learn more about each type.4

NAATs: Also known as polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based tests, this is the test you typically get at a doctor’s office, lab or testing facility. NAATs are generally the most reliable tests for people with or without symptoms. You may have to wait up to a few days to get your results.

Antigen tests: These are rapid tests that provide results in 15 to 30 minutes. Over-the-counter (OTC) at-home tests are usually antigen tests. Antigen tests tend to be less reliable than NAATs, especially if you don’t have symptoms. If you test negative, the CDC recommends taking another antigen test at least 48 hours after your first test as the best way to rule out infection.4

How do I get a COVID-19 test?

If you need a PCR-based test, contact your primary care doctor to make an appointment. This type of test may require a deductible or coinsurance, depending on your plan benefits.

If you need an OTC at-home test, visit your local network pharmacy. You can also order tests from many retail pharmacies online. Most UnitedHealthcare plans do not include coverage for OTC at-home COVID tests after the national public health emergency period ended on May 11, 2023. However, if you have a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA), you can typically use these to pay for OTC at-home tests.

Which COVID-19 vaccine should I get?

Visit the CDC website for guidance on getting a COVID-19 vaccine . You’ll find information about the vaccines and recommendations for specific groups of people, like children and immunocompromised individuals. 

What do I need to bring to my vaccine appointment?

Bring your UnitedHealthcare member ID card. You’ll also want to bring your photo ID, such as a driver’s license, to show proof of identity. Find additional information on preparing for your vaccination appointment on the CDC website. 

If my COVID-19 vaccine has no cost-share, do I still need to show my insurance card?

Yes. By showing your health insurance card, you’re helping make sure there is a digital record of your COVID-19 vaccination status available through your UnitedHealthcare member account. Also, if you receive additional services during your vaccination appointment or get the vaccine during a regular office visit, you may be responsible for copays, deductibles, coinsurance or out-of- network charges, depending on your benefit plan. 

What should I expect when getting a COVID-19 vaccine?

Visit the CDC website for helpful information on getting your COVID-19 vaccine. Be sure to allow extra time for your appointment. Your vaccination provider will likely monitor you after receiving the vaccine, typically for around 15 minutes. This is in case of a rare allergic reaction.

Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are widely available across vaccination providers, including retail pharmacies, doctors’ offices and other health systems.

Find vaccine providers in your area 

What is the cost of getting a COVID-19 vaccine?

Most UnitedHealthcare plans include COVID-19 vaccines at no additional cost at network providers, as part of your preventive care benefits. However, if you receive a COVID-19 vaccine during a regular doctor’s visit where you talk about other health needs for diagnosis, you may have a cost-share for the office visit, according to your benefit plan. This means you may be responsible for a copay, coinsurance or deductible. Sign in to your health plan account to view coverage details.

What should I know about Long COVID?

While most people get over COVID-19 within a few weeks of illness, some people can experience long-term effects from their infection known as Post-COVID Conditions (PCC) or Long COVID. These conditions can include a wide range of ongoing health problems that can last weeks, months or years. Vaccination can help reduce your chances of developing Long COVID. Visit the CDC website to learn more about Long COVID.

Footnotes

Disclaimers

This page describes benefits we offer to all members in all states. They also include federal requirements. More benefits may be available in some states and under some plans.

We have created rules and practices that may apply to some of our products at this time. The information is a summary and is subject to change. For more information, contact your account representative or call the number on your member ID card.

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