There is no standardized requirement for the timing of nucleic acid testing, which is largely based on the level of risk, and local immunization policies. Currently, nucleic acid testing is mainly used for the initial screening of novel coronavirus pneumonia, and there is no standardized requirement for when nucleic acid testing should be performed. If the current development of novel coronavirus pneumonia is severe and the risk of transmission is high, the frequency of testing may be increased to allow for early and improved screening, e.g., daily nucleic acid testing. If the risk level decreases, the frequency of testing can be reduced to every other day. If there are no new cases of novel coronavirus pneumonia in the current geographic area, nucleic acid testing can be performed according to one’s needs. In addition, in order to effectively control the outbreak, the local immunization policy should be followed and nucleic acid testing should be performed in strict compliance with the policy. Tip: In this article, the terms “new coronavirus pneumonia” and “new coronavirus pneumonia” were renamed to “new coronavirus infection” on December 26, 2022, as announced by the National Health Commission.