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GTR Home > > COVID-19 RT-qPCR Test

Interpretation

Sample Negative Report

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Sample Positive Report

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Comments about the test interpretation (e.g. clinical implication of test results)

Positive results do not rule out bacterial infection or co-infection with other viruses. The agent detected may not be the definite cause of disease. Laboratories within the United States and its territories are required to report all positive results to the appropriate public health authorities. Negative results do not preclude SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for patient management decisions. Negative results must be combined with clinical observations, patient history, and epidemiological information. Negative results for SARS-CoV-2 RNA from saliva should be confirmed by testing of an alternative specimen type if clinically indicated.

Research

Is research allowed on the sample after clinical testing is complete?Help
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Clinical resources

Practice guidelines

  • NICE, 2024
    UK NICE Guideline NG191, COVID-19 rapid guideline: managing COVID-19, 2024

Consumer resources

IMPORTANT NOTE: NIH does not independently verify information submitted to the GTR; it relies on submitters to provide information that is accurate and not misleading. NIH makes no endorsements of tests or laboratories listed in the GTR. GTR is not a substitute for medical advice. Patients and consumers with specific questions about a genetic test should contact a health care provider or a genetics professional.