Why is the report negative despite the symptoms of corona? These three reasons may be responsible

There has been fear among the people since the Corona epidemic began. Its features are also confusing. Confusion about normal, severe, and asymptomatic symptoms may occur before the test. Now that the lockdown has opened, jobs and businesses have started, and public places have been opened, increasing the risk of infection. It is wise to get tested if you come in contact with an infected person. The RT-PCR test is considered a reliable measure of corona. However, like other diagnostic tools, this test has its drawbacks. This can often lead to a false positive or negative test result. Thus, although the chances of the test report being wrong are low, here are three possible reasons why the result may be wrong.

Reported very soon

Symptoms begin to appear 2-4 days after being infected with the corona virus. It often takes up to two weeks for symptoms to fully appear. It is possible that someone may have taken the corona test 'too soon', which will result in a negative report despite being infected. That is why it is advisable to get tested in the first week after coming in contact with an infected person or to get tested a second time to confirm.

If the swab test is not correct

The RT-PCR test takes samples from your nasal passages and throat. When viral load is seen in these two places the report comes positive. However, the report may be inaccurate if the swab sample is not taken properly with the help of Q-tip and there is not enough mucosal secretion in it or the report is likely to be incorrect if the viral load is not sufficient.

If the test sample is spoiled ...

The infection of Covid-19 is new and the testing process also requires a certain amount of time and effort. That is why it takes 24-48 hours for the test result to come. If the test sample is spoiled, not stored at the right temperature or if the right chemical is not used to detect the RNA, the result may be slippery. This can lead to false negative reports.

Should it be re-tested?

Seeing the growing number of cases of corona virus around the world, people are also getting tested to allay fears. Many people get tested as soon as they come in contact with an infected person as part of their precaution. But it is important to remember that time is of the essence in the Covid test and that is why the chances of the report coming out false negative or positive increase. It is advisable to get tested only if you have symptoms of corona or you have come in contact with an infected person. It is not advisable to take a test to remove the remaining fear. The antigen test used for cirrhosis is helpful in such cases. However, an RT-PCR test should be performed if symptoms appear or come in contact with an infected person, even after a negative antigen test.

What to do if the report is negative but symptoms appear?

Again, no test is 100 percent accurate. The possibility of a false positive or negative report cannot be ruled out. That's why it's best to be quarantined as part of precaution when symptoms appear, even if the report is negative. In the meantime one should stay in isolation for at least 4-5 days, wear a mask, do not share anything with others and adhere to social distance. Consult a doctor so they can guide you about the right medication and precautions.