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[Bezzy Psoriasis](https://www.bezzypsoriasis.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) ### Follow Us Subscribe # What to know about a false positive rapid COVID-19 test  [Medically reviewed]() by [Darragh O'Carroll, MD]() — Written by [Kristina Iavarone]() on October 28, 2022 - [Causes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/false-positive-rapid-covid-test#causes) - [Accuracy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/false-positive-rapid-covid-test#accuracy) - [Reducing the risk](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/false-positive-rapid-covid-test#reducing-the-risk) - [Taking the test](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/false-positive-rapid-covid-test#taking-the-test) - [Next steps](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/false-positive-rapid-covid-test#next-steps) - [Summary](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/false-positive-rapid-covid-test#summary) A false positive result is possible with a rapid COVID-19 test. It happens when a person does not have COVID-19 but still tests positive for the disease. People can use a rapid COVID-19 test at home to check whether they have SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The result is available within a few minutes. These self-tests do not require laboratory analysis, and people can use one whether or not they are vaccinated or have any symptoms. Rapid tests are available online, in pharmacies, or in retail stores. Other terms for a rapid test include a home test, an at-home test, or an over-the-counter (OTC) test. [Learn more about at-home COVID-19 tests.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/at-home-coronavirus-test) This article outlines how a false positive on a rapid COVID-19 test can happen. It also discusses other factors, such as test accuracy and steps people should take if they test positive for COVID-19. ## [What causes a false positive rapid COVID-19 test?]()  [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Ffalse-positive-rapid-covid-test&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.medicalnewstoday.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2022%2F09%2Ffalse_positive_covid_1296x728_header-1024x575.jpg&description=False%20positive%20rapid%20COVID-19%20test%3A%20Causes%20and%20accuracy "Share on Pinterest") Design by Medical News Today; photography by Calvin Chan Wai Meng/Getty Images Although a rapid COVID-19 test is [unlikely](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/home-covid-19-antigen-tests-take-steps-reduce-your-risk-false-negative-fda-safety-communication) to produce a false positive result, possible reasons for inaccurate results include: - **Symptoms and testing time:** Rapid tests tend to be more accurate if a person tests while experiencing some symptoms. - **Contamination:** The [Food and Drug Administration (FDA)](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/letters-health-care-providers/potential-false-positive-results-antigen-tests-rapid-detection-sars-cov-2-letter-clinical-laboratory) explains that false positive results can occur due to contamination. - **Not reading instructions:** People should read the package instructions before using an at-home COVID-19 test. A person may get a false positive result if they check the result before or after the test instructions recommend doing so. **»MORE:**[Get an online treatment plan for COVID-19 in as little as 15 minutes with Optum Now Online Care.](https://now.optum.com/online-care/app/cp_12q_449a_covid19coronavirus?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=organic-onlinecare-on&utm_content=linkto-oc-on-covid-19&utm_campaign=mnt-article-oc-on-backlink) Optum Now is operated by RVO Health. By clicking on this link, we may receive a commission. [Learn more.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/brand-and-product-vetting) ## [How accurate are rapid COVID-19 tests?]() According to the [World Health Organization (WHO)](https://www.who.int/mongolia/multi-media/item/antigen-test), rapid tests are less accurate than [polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-pcr-test), which detect a virus’s genetic material. PCR tests check whether a person has the virus at the time they get tested and can provide an early diagnosis. However, a rapid test has other advantages, which may outweigh the importance of sensitivity. These advantages include the below: - They are more easily available. - The results are ready faster. - They are cheaper and easier to do, making them suitable for frequent use. A positive result on an at-home COVID-19 test is usually accurate, but false negatives [can occur](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/home-covid-19-antigen-tests-take-steps-reduce-your-risk-false-negative-fda-safety-communication) when a person has no COVID-19 symptoms or their infection happened recently. [A 2021 study](https://academic.oup.com/jid/article/223/7/1139/6061974?login=false) found that antigen tests are more likely to be accurate if a person has a high viral load. A 2020 pilot data study found rapid tests only detected around [48\.9%](https://www.bmj.com/content/371/bmj.m4848.long) of infections in people without symptoms. However, there is a low chance they will issue a false positive result. Despite these drawbacks, some [researchers](https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.06.22.20136309v2.full.pdf) have suggested that the speed of return and ability to do more frequent tests may make the rapid antigen test more suitable in many cases than a PCR test. [Learn more about the differences between PCR and rapid tests.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pcr-vs-rapid-test) ## [How to reduce the risk of a false positive]() A person can take some measures [to reduce](https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/at-home-medical-tests/) the risk of getting a false positive test result, such as: - buying FDA-approved at-home tests - following the directions on the package - avoiding using expired tests - not sharing or reusing swabs The [FDA](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-emergency-use-authorizations-medical-devices/in-vitro-diagnostics-euas-antigen-diagnostic-tests-sars-cov-2) also provides a list of antigen tests that people can buy. These include: - Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test - NIDS COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test Kit - OHC COVID-19 Antigen Self Test - QuickVue At-Home OTC COVID-19 Test - Celltrion DiaTrust COVID-19 Ag Home Test ## [When to take a rapid test]() The [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html) recommend people take a rapid test if they: - have developed COVID-19 symptoms, such as cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, or nasal congestion - have been in close contact with someone who has contracted SARS-CoV-2 - are attending an indoor or crowded event [Learn more about when to get tested after exposure.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-soon-after-exposure-to-covid-should-i-be-tested) ## [What to do if you get a positive result]() If a person gets a positive result after an at-home test, they [likely](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/home-covid-19-antigen-tests-take-steps-reduce-your-risk-false-negative-fda-safety-communication) have COVID-19. If someone tests positive, the [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html) recommends taking the following precautions: - staying at home for 5 days and avoiding close contact with others - staying hydrated - seeking medical care if an individual has trouble breathing - getting enough rest The [WHO](https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-home-care-for-families-and-caregivers) recommends calling a medical professional if a person tests positive, has mild symptoms, and is at risk of developing a serious disease. If a child tests positive for COVID-19, looks confused, and their lips turn blue — or gray or whitish for those with darker skin, a parent or caregiver should seek urgent care. It [may also](https://www.bmj.com/content/372/bmj.n208) be a suitable idea to undergo a PCR test to confirm the result. [Learn more about COVID-19 test results.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-test-results-how-long) ## [Summary]() A rapid or at-home COVID-19 test is a quick and convenient way to find out if a person has COVID-19. Rarely, rapid tests may provide a false positive result. For example, if someone does not follow the package instructions, they may get inaccurate results. Health experts recommend self-isolating for at least 5 days if they test positive for COVID-19. If a person experiences trouble breathing or worsening symptoms, they may wish to consult a doctor. - [Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/infectious_diseases) - [COVID-19](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/covid-19) ### How we reviewed this article: Sources Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process). - Antigen test. (2020). <https://www.who.int/mongolia/multi-media/item/antigen-test> - At-home COVID-19 antigen tests-take steps to reduce your risk of false negative: FDA safety communication. (2022). <https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/home-covid-19-antigen-tests-take-steps-reduce-your-risk-false-negative-fda-safety-communication> - At-home medical tests. (2022). <https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/at-home-medical-tests/> - Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Home care for families and caregivers. (2022). <https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-home-care-for-families-and-caregivers> - Crozier, A., *et al.* (2021). Put to the test: use of rapid testing technologies for covid-19. <https://www.bmj.com/content/372/bmj.n208> - In vitro diagnostics EUAs - Antigen diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2. (2022). <https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-emergency-use-authorizations-medical-devices/in-vitro-diagnostics-euas-antigen-diagnostic-tests-sars-cov-2> - Larremore, D. B., *et al*. (2020). Test sensitivity is secondary to frequency and turnaround time for COVID-19 surveillance. <https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.06.22.20136309v2.full.pdf> - PCR tests. (2022). <https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/pcr-tests/> - Pilarowski, G., *et al.* (2021). Performance characteristics of a rapid severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 antigen detection assay at a public plaza testing site in San Francisco. <https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiaa802> - Potential for false positive results with antigen tests for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 - Letter to clinical laboratory staff and health care providers. (2020). <https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/letters-health-care-providers/potential-false-positive-results-antigen-tests-rapid-detection-sars-cov-2-letter-clinical-laboratory> - Wise, J. (2020). Covid-19: Lateral flow tests miss over half of cases, Liverpool pilot data show. <https://www.bmj.com/content/371/bmj.m4848.long> - Your health. (2022). <https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/index.html> Share this article  [Medically reviewed]() by [Darragh O'Carroll, MD]() — Written by [Kristina Iavarone]() on October 28, 2022 ## Latest news - [Two days of oatmeal may help reduce 'bad' cholesterol levels, study finds](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/two-days-oatmeal-reduce-ldl-cholesterol-levels-study) - [Is sleep the missing piece in mental health?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-sleep-the-missing-piece-in-mental-health) - [Is this why dementia affects more women? 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Learn how and when to access…](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/coronavirus-testing?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/coronavirus-testing?utm_source=ReadNext) - [9 of the best at-home COVID-19 tests and how to choose](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/at-home-coronavirus-test?utm_source=ReadNext) [Whether a person is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or not, they may wish to take an at-home test. 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A false positive result is possible with a rapid COVID-19 test. It happens when a person does not have COVID-19 but still tests positive for the disease. People can use a rapid COVID-19 test at home to check whether they have SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The result is available within a few minutes. These self-tests do not require laboratory analysis, and people can use one whether or not they are vaccinated or have any symptoms. Rapid tests are available online, in pharmacies, or in retail stores. Other terms for a rapid test include a home test, an at-home test, or an over-the-counter (OTC) test. This article outlines how a false positive on a rapid COVID-19 test can happen. It also discusses other factors, such as test accuracy and steps people should take if they test positive for COVID-19.  [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Ffalse-positive-rapid-covid-test&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.medicalnewstoday.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2022%2F09%2Ffalse_positive_covid_1296x728_header-1024x575.jpg&description=False%20positive%20rapid%20COVID-19%20test%3A%20Causes%20and%20accuracy "Share on Pinterest") Design by Medical News Today; photography by Calvin Chan Wai Meng/Getty Images Although a rapid COVID-19 test is [unlikely](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/home-covid-19-antigen-tests-take-steps-reduce-your-risk-false-negative-fda-safety-communication) to produce a false positive result, possible reasons for inaccurate results include: - **Symptoms and testing time:** Rapid tests tend to be more accurate if a person tests while experiencing some symptoms. - **Contamination:** The [Food and Drug Administration (FDA)](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/letters-health-care-providers/potential-false-positive-results-antigen-tests-rapid-detection-sars-cov-2-letter-clinical-laboratory) explains that false positive results can occur due to contamination. - **Not reading instructions:** People should read the package instructions before using an at-home COVID-19 test. A person may get a false positive result if they check the result before or after the test instructions recommend doing so. Optum Now is operated by RVO Health. By clicking on this link, we may receive a commission. [Learn more.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/brand-and-product-vetting) According to the [World Health Organization (WHO)](https://www.who.int/mongolia/multi-media/item/antigen-test), rapid tests are less accurate than [polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-pcr-test), which detect a virus’s genetic material. PCR tests check whether a person has the virus at the time they get tested and can provide an early diagnosis. However, a rapid test has other advantages, which may outweigh the importance of sensitivity. These advantages include the below: - They are more easily available. - The results are ready faster. - They are cheaper and easier to do, making them suitable for frequent use. A positive result on an at-home COVID-19 test is usually accurate, but false negatives [can occur](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/home-covid-19-antigen-tests-take-steps-reduce-your-risk-false-negative-fda-safety-communication) when a person has no COVID-19 symptoms or their infection happened recently. [A 2021 study](https://academic.oup.com/jid/article/223/7/1139/6061974?login=false) found that antigen tests are more likely to be accurate if a person has a high viral load. A 2020 pilot data study found rapid tests only detected around [48\.9%](https://www.bmj.com/content/371/bmj.m4848.long) of infections in people without symptoms. However, there is a low chance they will issue a false positive result. Despite these drawbacks, some [researchers](https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.06.22.20136309v2.full.pdf) have suggested that the speed of return and ability to do more frequent tests may make the rapid antigen test more suitable in many cases than a PCR test. A person can take some measures [to reduce](https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/at-home-medical-tests/) the risk of getting a false positive test result, such as: - buying FDA-approved at-home tests - following the directions on the package - avoiding using expired tests - not sharing or reusing swabs The [FDA](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-emergency-use-authorizations-medical-devices/in-vitro-diagnostics-euas-antigen-diagnostic-tests-sars-cov-2) also provides a list of antigen tests that people can buy. These include: - Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test - NIDS COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test Kit - OHC COVID-19 Antigen Self Test - QuickVue At-Home OTC COVID-19 Test - Celltrion DiaTrust COVID-19 Ag Home Test - have developed COVID-19 symptoms, such as cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, or nasal congestion - have been in close contact with someone who has contracted SARS-CoV-2 - are attending an indoor or crowded event If a person gets a positive result after an at-home test, they [likely](https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/home-covid-19-antigen-tests-take-steps-reduce-your-risk-false-negative-fda-safety-communication) have COVID-19. If someone tests positive, the [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html) recommends taking the following precautions: - staying at home for 5 days and avoiding close contact with others - staying hydrated - seeking medical care if an individual has trouble breathing - getting enough rest The [WHO](https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-home-care-for-families-and-caregivers) recommends calling a medical professional if a person tests positive, has mild symptoms, and is at risk of developing a serious disease. If a child tests positive for COVID-19, looks confused, and their lips turn blue — or gray or whitish for those with darker skin, a parent or caregiver should seek urgent care. It [may also](https://www.bmj.com/content/372/bmj.n208) be a suitable idea to undergo a PCR test to confirm the result. A rapid or at-home COVID-19 test is a quick and convenient way to find out if a person has COVID-19. Rarely, rapid tests may provide a false positive result. For example, if someone does not follow the package instructions, they may get inaccurate results. Health experts recommend self-isolating for at least 5 days if they test positive for COVID-19. If a person experiences trouble breathing or worsening symptoms, they may wish to consult a doctor.