Buzz
Previously, a positive COVID test offered reassurance against reinfection for several months. However, that temporary immunity is no longer guaranteed. Alongside wearing a properly fitted mask, it’s wise to use your free mailed COVID tests and test frequently.
On the bright side, at-home COVID tests are now more accessible than ever. On the downside, as you may have heard or experienced, these antigen tests aren’t entirely foolproof.
Current COVID variants, BA.4 and BA.5, are especially adept at avoiding detection by at-home antigen tests, as noted by experts. Here’s how to proceed if your at-home test is negative but you still have COVID symptoms.
Reasons Your COVID Test Might Show Negative
A negative result doesn’t completely exclude the possibility of infection. If you have COVID symptoms or were exposed to the virus, yet your test is negative, several factors could explain this.
The BA.4 and BA.5 variants may take longer to appear on at-home tests. Even if it’s not one of these highly contagious strains, testing too early (before at least five days post-exposure) or having a low viral load could result in a false negative, despite being infected.
User error is another factor. At-home antigen tests have never been flawless, even before the latest variants. However, experts told CNBC that these tests remain useful for those with symptoms or exposure to the virus.
CDC guidelines recommend retesting one to two days after a negative result, regardless of your situation. Ensure you’re storing your at-home tests properly and consider getting a PCR test if possible.
Isolate yourself if you’re showing symptoms
If you have symptoms resembling COVID, assume you’re contagious, even if it turns out to be another illness. Staying home is a responsible choice to protect others. Keep in mind: What feels mild to you could be severe for someone else.
The key takeaway is that feeling unwell likely means you’re sick with something. A negative test doesn’t erase your symptoms. Isolate and wear a mask indoors. Even if it’s not COVID, no one wants to catch what you have.
