Can you infect someone if you have no symptoms of COVID-19?

It is possible to infect someone with COVID-19 even if you have no symptoms. This is called asymptomatic transmission.

People infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus can transmit the virus without ever developing symptoms. These people are called asymptomatic. Research has shown that asymptomatic people can play a significant role in spreading the virus, as they are often unaware of their infection and are therefore less likely to take precautions.

People infected with the virus can also transmit it before they develop symptoms. This is called presymptomatic transmission. Studies have shown that people can be most contagious in the days immediately before symptoms appear, when the viral load in their body is high.

Because both asymptomatic and presymptomatic people can transmit the virus, it is important to take precautions such as wearing masks, washing hands, social distancing, and getting vaccinated, even if you feel healthy. Testing for COVID-19 is also crucial to detect asymptomatic infections and prevent further spread.

Source: https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/transmission-of-sars-cov-2-implications-for-infection-prevention-precautions

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-12-01 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024