Telangana: RT-PCR not done on those who test antigen negative

HYDERABAD: While Telangana, after much delay, has started rapid antigen testing, it is not following the protocol strictly. Though the ICMR has suggested that those who test negative in an antigen test, need to undergo a RT-PCR test, the government has decided to ask symptomatic people to go into isolation, instead of testing them again. Incidentally, Bollywood star Aishwarya Rai tested negative in the rapid antigen test, but turned positive in the RT-PCR test.


The state’s decision has left experts wary as they say more caution is the need of the hour. They insist that antigen followup should be made strict, even as the health department has not mandated the RT-PCR test for those who report negative in antigen test. During the antigen tests done across Greater Hyderabad and Rangareddy and Medchal districts, patients who tested negative aren’t being made to undergo the followup RT-PCR test, but being asked to do self-quarantine at home, if they are symptomatic.

“We will give home isolation kits to those who are symptomatic. No RT-PCR tests are being done on those who test antigen negative. They are advised home isolation if symptomatic,” confirmed Rangareddy DMHO, Dr B Veeranjaneyulu. But experts have a different opinion. “States also need to have their Covid-19 protocols in place. Some states are doing RT-PCR for those who test negative in rapid antigen. It is always better to rule out the infection,” Dr Giridhara R Babu, professor with Public Health Institute of India told TOI.