Negative COVID Tests but Persistent Fever: What Could It Mean? - Internal Medicine

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It's understandable to be concerned about persistent fever, especially in the context of potential COVID-19 exposure. Given your situation, let's break down the possibilities and provide some insights based on medical knowledge.

First, it's important to note that a negative COVID-19 test, particularly a rapid antigen test, does not definitively rule out an infection. These tests can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if the viral load is low at the time of testing. This means that even if you have been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19, it is still possible that you could be infected but not yet have enough virus in your system for the test to detect it.
The persistent fever you are experiencing, with a maximum temperature of around 37.6 degrees Celsius, could be due to several factors. While COVID-19 is a possibility, other viral infections, bacterial infections, or even non-infectious causes such as inflammation or stress can also lead to fever. In your case, since you mentioned that you do not have any other symptoms typically associated with COVID-19 (like cough, loss of taste or smell, or difficulty breathing), it might suggest that the fever could be due to something other than COVID-19.

Given that your blood oxygen levels are normal at 98%, this is a reassuring sign. In COVID-19, low oxygen saturation can indicate more severe respiratory involvement, which does not seem to be the case for you. However, it is still essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If your fever persists or worsens, or if you develop new symptoms, it would be wise to seek further medical evaluation.

In addition, your age (15 years) and overall health status play a role in how your body responds to infections. Younger individuals often have robust immune responses, which can sometimes lead to mild symptoms or atypical presentations of illness.
If you continue to have a fever without any other symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They might recommend further testing, such as a PCR test for COVID-19, which is more sensitive than rapid tests, or other blood tests to rule out other infections or conditions.
In summary, while your negative COVID-19 tests are a good sign, the persistent fever warrants attention. Keep monitoring your symptoms, maintain hydration, and rest. If things do not improve or if you have any concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health matters.