Reason behind a negative RT-PCR test despite being COVID

May 6, 2021 Tenzin Chodon

RT-PCR tests: The gold standard for COVID testing

One of the best ways to get an accurate COVID-19 test result is through an RT-PCR test, which is currently the gold standard of COVID testing. Canva

What does a 'false negative' mean?

Recent reports have suggested that many individuals, who happen to experience mild to severe COVID symptoms, are testing negative for the infection. Canva

Why are people testing negative despite developing symptoms

Here's why people are testing RT-PCR negative even when they have symptoms. Canva

Low viral load

In case the viral load in the body is low, the test result may come back as negative. Pexels

Incorrect sample collection

If your sample is not collected appropriately or the swab stick is not inserted accurately, this may also trigger a false negative result. Pexels

Inability to detect new variants

Additionally, many experts suggest that RT-PCR tests, which were initially developed to track the original COVID strain, are failing to detect the new COVID variants. Canva

Early testing

Getting yourself tested as and when you come in contact with an infected person may also show a negative COVID result. Canva

Concerning factors

The increase in the number of false negative results has somehow denied admission of severe COVID patients in the hospitals. Canva

What to do?

If you have COVID symptoms but have tested negative, you must get re-tested for the same. Isolate and monitor your symptoms till then. Manage your blood oxygen levels (SpO2) Canva