Flare up and PCR Covid Test

[UKMoss]

Would anyone suggest taking a PCR Covid test during a Lupus flare up that comes with a low-grade fever? Could this have an affect on the results?

[PMRpro]

No, the PCR test is specifically for virus products - if you think there is any chance of Covid, take the test.

[UKMoss in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you for your quick response. I want to know whether I was exposed to Covid 19 before taking the vaccine.

[PMRpro in reply to UKMoss]

The PCR test only identifies current infections - not that you have had one in the past. That is also a different test from the one that shows if you have developed antibodies from having had the vaccines.

Even if you have been exposed to Covid in the past, the vaccine is required for better protection against variants. Infection only protects you from the version you have had and the protections against other variants is limited.

[Teanau22]

I recently had a flare, took a LFT before ambulance arrived, and when in hospital they completed a PCR test, all was negative. So worth doing if you think it may be. As when I did have covid it felt very similar to the start of a flare.

[nwfrugalista]

I have multiple AI conditions, plus POTS and so often when I believe I’m going into a flare it is hard to know which condition goes with which symptom(s). Now with COVID in the mix, I have to wonder whether it’s truly a flare or possibly that as well. My doctor said that I’m to call (and have the telehealth visit, get tested if ordered) whenever I have covid symptoms. He certainly didn’t want me continuing to go to the shops/be in public if I were carrying covid. Not to mention the earlier it’s caught, the better (for getting monoclonal antibodies on board, etc.)

So if it were me, I’d definitely call it in. If the doctor agrees that it’s a flare, there’s no harm in having called.

[UKMoss in reply to nwfrugalista]

I appreciate your perspective. I would hate to think I am battling Covid 19, yet it is possible because the symptoms are similar.

[katidid]

No, it won’t. Get tested if you think you may have been exposed or have covid symptoms.