Hello!
I am visiting my home in America for two weeks and in my first week, contracted COVID. More than a week later and I’m still showing up positive on my rapid antigen test. My flight back to Japan is scheduled for tomorrow but considering I’m still antigen-positive, I figured I would be showing up as positive in my PCR test as well and I won’t be able to fly out tomorrow. Ultimately I would need to reschedule my flights. I contacted my BOE and supervisor already so they’re aware. I just don’t know what to do next?
Was wondering if this has happened to anyone else recently and if y’all have any advice, such as when to book my PCR test, when to book my next flight out, how often I should test, if there is anything else I should do/look out for?
3 comments
Join the Return to Japan Support Group on Facebook. This happens to people pretty regularly, so it should be easy to find a post with advice.
I had the same experience recently while visiting the UK. Info below was my experience, YMMV.
Firstly, there are thousands of people who this has happened to, airlines are ready to deal with it for the most part, and your first step should be to try not to worry!
Contact your airline immediately to reschedule your flight, ideally allowing yourself more time to recover before taking the pre-flight PCR test. Depending on the airline, they can try to get you a flight at the same price, or you may have to pay the difference if necessary.
How long that recovery time to pass the PCR test is can vary depending on how seriously you have had Covid. A couple of weeks should do the trick. (Various people report different lengths of time.) I still tested positive a week after the initial positive test, but negative after 9 days.
Also, rearrange the PCR test with your provider to a new date based on your flight – some providers will change dates for you without any cancellation dates or rebooking fees.
Note: In rare cases a PCR test can show positive for upto 90 days after someone recovers, as some PCR tests are very sensitive. If you are worried about this contact the Japanese embassy, and they can arrange a letter for you that will allow you onto your rebooked flight even after a failed PCR test… BUT you will need to provide them various documents, and it can take them a week or more to provide it. They will explain exactly what they need, and how this works.
Finally, did you take out travel insurance? If so check the policy to see if you may be eligible for reimbursement if you incur any additional costs.
And yes, do join the Facebook group mentioned in other posts.
I made it back from this situation, and you will too!
Wow I head home next week on vacation and you’re literally living my worst nightmare.
Contact your local Japanese consulate. I’ve heard anecdotally from people in the Return to Japan Support Group that if enough time has passed since you first caught covid, and you’re no longer showing symptoms, then sometimes they’ll write you an exemption for the PCR. It’s not a for sure thing, but ask them about it