Fig. 1.

Estimated variation over time in diagnostic tests for detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection relative to symptom onset. Estimated time intervals and rates of viral detection are based on data from several published reports. Because of variability in values among studies, estimated time intervals should be considered approximations and the probability of detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection is presented qualitatively. SARS-CoV-2 indicates severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; PCR, polymerase chain reaction. ^aDetection only occurs if patients are followed up proactively from the time of exposure. ^bMore likely to register a negative than a positive result by PCR of a nasopharyngeal swab. Reproduced from: Sethuraman N, Jeremiah SS, Ryo A. Interpreting Diagnostic Tests for SARS-CoV-2. JAMA. Published online May 06, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2020.8259.