Hiv

Undetectable Viral Load and HIV Transmission: Zero Risk, but Questions Remain

HIV

Studies show that an "undetectable" viral load means zero risk of HIV transmission between sexual partners.

This is due to the fact that the level of HIV in the body is so low that it cannot be detected by standard tests. As a result, the virus is not able to be transmitted to another person through sexual contact.

This finding is significant because it means that people with HIV who are on effective treatment can live healthy, full lives without transmitting the virus to others. It also provides hope for an end to the HIV epidemic.

COVID-19

When a Covid-19 test shows "detected abnormal", it indicates that the test detected the presence of the virus, but the results are inconclusive.

This could be due to a number of factors, such as the test being taken too early or too late in the course of the infection, or the sample being contaminated.

A "not detected" result on a Covid-19 PCR test means that the test did not detect the presence of the virus. This could mean that the person is not infected with the virus, or that the level of virus in their body is too low to be detected by the test.

Is "not detected" the same as "absent"?

No, "not detected" does not necessarily mean "absent". It is possible that the virus is present in the body but at a level that is too low to be detected by the test.

However, a "not detected" result is generally considered to be a good sign, as it means that the person is likely not infectious.

Eurofins believes that "not detected" is the most correct way to report a negative Covid-19 test result.

This is because it accurately reflects the fact that the test did not detect the presence of the virus, but it does not necessarily mean that the person is not infected.

Meaning if you are tested for the coronavirus and get either a positive or a result saying "detected" you are infected.