About test results

Here you will find laboratory results for COVID-19 as well as other types of viruses and bacteria that can cause respiratory infections. Laboratory and radiology results from hospitals under the Western Norway Regional Health Authority (Helse Vest) may also be included.

 

Laboratory and radiology results from Helse Vest hospitals

You do not need to do anything with your laboratory and radiology result. Your medical care provider, or the doctor who ordered the test, will contact you if your test results require further follow-up. The laboratory or radiological department is unable to notify you of your test results.

You must not make any changes to your medication or other treatment except by agreement with a doctor.

The access log for your patient record shows a list of health professionals who have looked at your test results.

Test results for coronavirus

The length of time it takes to obtain a test result varies, but you will see it at the same time as it is sent from the test centre or laboratory to the doctor who requested the test.

In the case of ordinary tests, known as PCR tests or other similar methods, the result will be available within 1-4 days, while for rapid antigen tests, you will be able to see the test result as soon as it is ready and has been registered by the test station.

What the test results tell you

What if you don't understand the test results?

If you do not understand your test result, your GP can help you.

Positive result: Coronavirus was detected

This means that the coronavirus was detected in the sample, and you have COVID-19.

What should I do if I test positive?

You must be in isolation if you have a confirmed coronavirus infection.

See updated information about home isolation at fhi.no

What should I do if someone I live with tests positive for COVID-19?

See advice and information for close contacts at fhi.no

Negative result: Coronavirus was not detected

This means that coronavirus was not detected when the sample was taken.

What should I do if I have tested negative for COVID-19?

If you have symptoms of acute respiratory infection, such as fever, a cold or flu, stay at home until you are symptom-free. If you need help, call your doctor. You should otherwise follow the advice and measures that apply to everyone regarding good cough and hygiene practices, keeping your distance, etc.

Inconclusive result: The test result is uncertain

This means that it is not possible to tell if there was coronavirus in the sample, or if you are infected with COVID-19. You will probably be tested again.

Which viruses and bacteria do the results show?

Both viruses and bacteria can cause respiratory infections, and your doctor will sometimes order other analyses in addition to SARS-CoV-2. This is done to find out whether there could be a different explanation other than COVID-19 if you have symptoms that suggest COVID-19 infection. You will find the test results when you log in.

Overview of all relevant COVID-19-related analyses:

  • SARS-CoV-2. Virus detection in sample from nose and/or throat.
    • SARS-CoV-2 RNA: the virus’s genetic material
    • SARS-CoV-2 antigen: parts of virus molecules, normally detected via a rapid antigen test
  • Influenza A/Influenza B
  • Parainfluenza virus
  • RS virus (respiratory syncytial virus)
  • Human metapneumovirus
  • Adenovirus
  • Rhinovirus
  • Mycoplasma pneumoniae
  • Chlamydia pneumoniae
  • Bordetella pertussis (whooping cough)

Test results for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies

Antibodies against coronavirus are detected in a blood sample. If antibodies are detected in your sample, this indicates that you have previously been infected by the virus or that you have been vaccinated. Your GP must assess what this test result means for you. Examples of such analyses are:

  • SARS-CoV-2 antibodies
  • SARS-Cov-2 IgG
  • SARS-Cov-2 IgM

Find out more about the various methods used to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus and virus antibodies at fhi.no (in Norwegian).

Information in other languages

Content provided by Norsk Helsenett , Norwegian Institute of Public Health

Last updated Friday, December 10, 2021