Is it possible to have COVID and test negative?

Some people with mild infections may test negative on an antigen test, but positive on a PCR test. This would mean that they have COVID, but don't have enough virus to turn an antigen test positive.
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What should I do if I test negative for COVID-19 but I have symptoms?

Negative
  • You may have COVID-19, but tested before the virus was detectable, or you may have another illness.
  • Take general public health precautions to prevent spreading an illness to others.
  • Contact a healthcare provider if you have any questions about your test result or if your symptoms worsen.
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Can I test negative for Covid and still have it?

Sometimes an at-home COVID-19 antigen test can have a false-negative result. A negative at-home test is not a free pass if the person taking the test has symptoms.
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How long after exposure to Covid will you test positive?

Your body takes one to three weeks after you have acquired the infection to develop antibodies to this virus. For this reason, serologic tests are not sensitive enough to accurately diagnose an active COVID-19 infection, even in people with symptoms.
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How soon can you test negative after having Covid?

At least 5 days. If you are: Asymptomatic: Isolate for 5 days after the first positive test.
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COVID-19 - An Easy Way to Know You DON'T HAVE IT!



Why is my COVID test negative?

A negative result means it's likely you are not infectious. But a negative test is not a guarantee you do not have COVID-19 and there's still a chance you may be infectious. You should follow advice on how to avoid catching and spreading the virus.
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How long are you infectious with Covid?

You may be infectious for up to 10 days. You are most infectious in the 2 days before your symptoms start and while you have acute symptoms (such as a runny nose, sore throat, fever, cough). Some people with COVID-19 do not develop symptoms at all but are still able to infect others.
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Can you test positive then negative?

If a symptomatic person tests positive on a rapid test, they likely have COVID-19. If you are exposed to someone who has COVID-19, or have symptoms but receive a negative test, you should take another test in 48 hours. If you then test positive or if your symptoms get worse, contact your health care provider.
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Am I still contagious after 5 days of COVID?

Infectiousness usually begins to decrease after day 5, but this doesn't mean you can't spread the virus beginning on day 6. This is why it is SO important to wear a mask through day 10. Everyone's immune response is different, and we can spread the virus for different amounts of time.
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Can you be positive one day and negative the next COVID?

Unfortunately, yes—it is possible.
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What are the early signs of detection of the coronavirus?

Possible symptoms include:
  • Fever or chills.
  • Cough.
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
  • Fatigue.
  • Muscle or body aches.
  • Headache.
  • New loss of taste or smell.
  • Sore throat.
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