Does "Steal Omicron" evade rapid test?
QUESTION: Although many people have suspected symptoms of Covid-19, the rapid test’s result is still negative while PCR test can detect it. Is it due to the “stealth” Omicron variant? Therefore, Should I do only the PCR test instead of the quick test?
3/18/2022 10:04:18 AM
QUESTION: Although many people have suspected symptoms of Covid-19, the rapid test’s result is still negative while PCR test can detect it. Is it due to the “stealth” Omicron variant? Therefore, Should I do only the PCR test instead of the quick test?
ANSWER: Rapid antigen test is a method detecting N antigen (nucleocapside) inside the virus.
Covid-19 variants, such as Alpha, Delta, Omicron, have mutations that cause changes in antigen while comparing to the original one. As for the Omicron variant, scientists have discovered 32 mutations which are only 4 mutations on the N antigen, the rest are on the S antigen.
Since the N antigen of Omicron is slightly different, the rapid antigen test may not detect it. However, in most cases the method still detects the N antigen. Mostly, it’s still effective in diagnosing Covid-19 caused by Omicron variant.
Currently, while Covid-19 rapidly spreads out in the community, our doctors give priority based on clinical symptoms and epidemiological factors , like people having the same symptoms, or being in close contact with Covid-19 case, to diagnosis and treatment rather than relying entirely on testing.
You should consult with doctor if you have suspected symptoms of Covid infection.