FDA reminds providers of steps to prevent false positive antigen tests

The Food and Drug Administration yesterday reminded clinical laboratory staff and health care providers to follow recommended steps to prevent false positive results from antigen tests for the COVID-19 virus, citing reports of false positives in nursing homes and other settings.

The agency recommends users follow the test maker’s instructions for use; allow each specimen the proper time in the test device and for reading results; minimize cross-contamination risks; and consider confirming positive results with a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test within 48 hours, especially in low-incidence counties.