Just when we think we have the Coronavirus under control, it surprises us, either by mutating and presenting its variant, or by catching us off guard with another deadly wave. This time, it’s even scarier.
On January 8, 2021, the FDA warned the world of the possibility of Covid-19 tests producing false negative results.
So, before you jump with joy on coming out negative, stop; it could be false negative! You could still be infected.
According to the FDA, this is due to the genetic variants of the virus. This announcement struck the world soon after the new Coronavirus strain named B.1.1.7 had emerged in the UK in December 2020. This strain is believed to be deadlier and spreads faster than the earlier one.
Challenging the accuracy of PCR tests
The new strain is challenging the accuracy of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) tests. These are also called molecular tests. They are regarded as the gold-standard in Coronavirus testing. This is because the tests examine the genetic material of the virus.
And this is where the concern arises because the mutating virus or the new strain is making the genetic material appear different.
So, the possibility is that the virus may go undetected through this test and you may come out with a false negative result.
What should people do?
According to doctors at the Alexandria immediate care clinic, you must not believe you are free of infection in case you test negative, yet “feel” like you are unwell.
The best thing to do is take a re-test and quarantine yourselves. As for now, with this latest findings, test is not the final answer to knowing whether you are infected.
“The only thing we can do at this point of time,” says a doctor from the clinic, “is to take all necessary precautions and stay away from people as much as you can.”
“Yes, it can be depressive to stay in isolation, as it’s being more than a year now, yet, we still have no choice,” the doctor adds.
Covid-19 vaccine
Doctors advise people to get vaccinated as fast as possible. “Once vaccines become available at your area, you must grab the opportunity to take a shot,” advises one of the staff members from the DC immediate and primary care facility.
As for now, in case you develop symptoms of the Coronavirus, you must contact a doctor. Avoid visiting the clinic. Doctors at your nearest urgent care clinic are available on video consultation.
The shocking finding
According to a report from the Johns Hopkins University, 1 in every 5 Covid-19 tests give a false negative result.
Researchers examined false negative on a day-to-day basis and found out that:
- On day 1 of infection, rate of false negative is 100%
- On day 4 of infection, rate of false negative falls to 67%
- On day 5 of infection, rate of false negative decreases by 38%
- On day 8 of infection, rate of false negative is the least – 20%
This data from the University implies that timing is crucial for accurate test results. If you are looking forward for Covid-19 test, consult a doctor at Alexandria immediate care first for the right timing.
