What happens if you get tested for COVID-19 and the result is negative?

Per the CDC guidance “a negative test means that you were probably not infected at the time you were tested. It is possible that you were early in your infection at the time the specimen was collected and that means you could test positive later.” A negative result does not mean you will not get sick and does not rule out that you may get sick later. You may be exposed later and then develop illness.

So, the question comes back to how sensitive is the COVID-19 test? First it depends on the type of test that was used. Most CDC testing is currently mailed out and delivers results within 48 hours of sending out the potential COVID specimen. As I researched this topic further, I could not find exact sensitivity for the COVID 19 test. Per a Q&A session with JAMA, Dr. Anthony Fauci stated if you receive a positive result you absolutely can make the clinical decision that the person has COVID.  However, if it is negative then the clinical decision is not as easy to say and depends on the test sensitivity. The days could be from a couple days of exposure to 14 days however the exact day the test will detect a positive is still unknown. From what I could gather I some researchers claim the test is very sensitive. Others predict the test to be 75 to 85% sensitive, meaning at least 25% to 15% of people tested will receive a false negative. Again, the exact sensitivity is not known.

So what should I do if I test negative?

Therefore, if you do test negative to be on the safe side my opinion is to still quarantine for 14 days and monitor your symptoms and temperature. If your symptoms worsen contact your doctor and seek medical attention immediately. Staying in quarantine will help delay the spread of the virus. Also keep on hand supportive medications such as acetaminophen, lozenges and cough and cold medications. 

Be aware COVID-19 information is rapidly changing and check with the CDC for latest updates. 

References:

1.    https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/testing.html. Accessed on March 27, 2020

2.    https://edhub.ama-assn.org/jn-learning/audio-player/18324686. Accessed on March 27, 2020