Can nucleic acid testing detect mild and severe cases of COVID-19?

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

COVID-19 usually refers to infection caused by the novel coronavirus. In general, nucleic acid testing cannot determine whether a novel coronavirus infection is mild or severe. After infection, it's important to ensure adequate rest and avoid physical exertion that could加重 the body's burden. Drink plenty of warm water to maintain respiratory tract moisture, eat light, nutritious, and balanced meals, and consume sufficient protein and vitamins to boost immunity. If fever occurs, physical cooling methods may be used.

Nucleic acid testing can only confirm whether an infection is present. Indicators such as fever level, respiratory rate, and lung CT findings reflect the extent of bodily involvement. By combining these clinical indicators with nucleic acid test results, doctors can accurately differentiate between mild and severe cases. Relying solely on nucleic acid testing, however, it is impossible to assess the severity of the illness. The core purpose of this test is to detect viral nucleic acid fragments; regardless of the viral load in the body, a positive result confirms diagnosis. However, there is no absolute correlation between viral load and symptom severity—some mild cases may have higher viral loads than severe ones. Therefore, the nucleic acid test result alone cannot serve as the basis for evaluating disease severity.

After infection, ensure adequate rest and avoid physical exertion that could加重 the body's burden. Drink plenty of warm water to keep the respiratory tract moist, maintain a light yet nutritionally balanced diet, and consume sufficient protein and vitamins to strengthen immunity. For fever, physical cooling methods can be used. Closely monitor changes in breathing and mental status, and seek professional medical help promptly if abnormalities occur.

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Does receiving the bivalent vaccine affect nucleic acid testing?

Under normal circumstances, "bivalent" usually refers to the bivalent HPV vaccine. Whether receiving the bivalent HPV vaccine affects nucleic acid testing depends on the specific type of nucleic acid test. After vaccination, keep the injection site clean and dry, and avoid getting it wet for 24 hours to prevent infection. Avoid overeating before testing, and cooperate with healthcare personnel during nucleic acid sampling.

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Will having a cold affect the results of a COVID-19 nucleic acid test?

A cold generally does not directly affect the results of a nucleic acid test for COVID-19. However, since the body is relatively weak during a cold, it's important to stay warm before and after testing to avoid worsening symptoms due to exposure to cold. Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or chewing gum within half an hour before the test to minimize irritation to the throat. During sample collection, cooperate with healthcare personnel by tilting your head backward and try to stay relaxed to reduce discomfort.

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Does eating plums affect COVID-19 nucleic acid testing?

Generally, eating plums does not affect COVID-19 nucleic acid testing. Maintain oral hygiene before and after the test to avoid food residue. Drink plenty of warm water daily, eat light and easily digestible foods, and reduce intake of spicy or irritating foods. If symptoms such as fever or cough develop while awaiting test results, practice personal protection and avoid going out.

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Are there nucleic acid tests using anal swabs?

In general, nucleic acid testing may include anal swabs. It is important to maintain good personal hygiene by washing hands frequently and keeping them clean, wearing masks properly when going out, and avoiding crowded places. Pay attention to eating a light and balanced diet, drink plenty of water to promote metabolism, maintain regular sleep patterns and avoid staying up late, and engage in moderate exercise to enhance immunity and reduce the risk of infection.