Can a COVID-19 test be negative for someone who still has the disease?

In most cases the tests used are correct. In exceptional cases, a COVID-19 test can still be negative in someone who has the disease. The evaluation of the tests now shows that the test is negative in 30% of the people who still have the disease. This may be due to the test itself.

But the method of collecting the contaminated material can also play a role. If the swab was not placed sufficiently deep during collection, the test may be negative because no viruses have ended up on the swab.

If there is a strong suspicion of an infection with a negative test, a CT scan can be made. The disease can be seen if there is damage to the lungs.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/testing-overview.html

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-12-09 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024