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

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

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.

Cold usually does not directly affect the results of nucleic acid testing for COVID-19. The detailed explanation is as follows:

The common cold is mostly caused by viruses such as influenza virus or rhinovirus, while nucleic acid testing for COVID-19 specifically targets unique gene sequences of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. These are entirely different types of viruses, and the test principle is highly specific. Cold-causing viruses do not cross-react with reagents used in the COVID-19 nucleic acid test, nor do they interfere with the gene amplification process during testing. Therefore, even if symptoms such as fever or cough appear due to a cold, they will not lead to false-positive or false-negative results in the COVID-19 nucleic acid test. There is no need to postpone testing because of a cold.

During a cold, your body may be weaker, so it's important to stay warm before and after the test to avoid worsening symptoms from exposure to cold. Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or chewing gum within 30 minutes before the test to minimize irritation to the throat. During sample collection, cooperate with healthcare staff by tilting your head back slightly and try to relax to reduce discomfort. After the test, drink plenty of warm water, ensure adequate rest, maintain a light and easily digestible diet, and avoid spicy or irritating foods. If the test result is negative but cold symptoms continue to worsen, seek medical attention promptly for appropriate treatment and avoid self-medicating unnecessarily.

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Elderly person suddenly develops fever and chills without having a cold, fever subsides but then recurs.

1. Go to the hospital as soon as possible for tests including complete blood count, inflammatory markers, and chest X-ray to identify the underlying cause of fever and provide a basis for targeted treatment, avoiding blind medication use. 2. Monitor vital signs properly: regularly measure body temperature, pulse, and blood pressure; record patterns of temperature changes; observe mental status, appetite, and presence of other discomforts, so as to provide accurate information for doctors to assess the condition.

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What are the benefits of having sex while having a cold?

The common cold is a respiratory illness caused by viral infections and is contagious. Close contact during sexual intercourse can transmit the virus to a partner. Additionally, the body needs to concentrate its energy to fight the virus during a cold, and sexual activity may consume physical strength, potentially worsening symptoms such as fatigue and fever. It may also prolong the illness due to fluctuations in immunity, and even trigger complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

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What causes feeling cold and dizzy without having a cold, and what should be done?

Feeling cold and dizzy without having a cold may be caused by insufficient warmth, excessive fatigue, low blood sugar, anemia, or hypothyroidism. Symptoms can be improved by warming the body promptly, getting adequate rest, replenishing energy, or receiving medical treatment. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by palpitations and worsening weakness, seek medical attention promptly. Exposure to excessively low environmental temperatures or wearing inadequate clothing can lead to rapid heat loss from the body.