What is CT value? How to read your Covid-19 test report

If you’re getting tested for the novel coronavirus, make sure to note your CT value in the test report. The CT count or the cycle threshold is a number mentioned in your RT-PCR test, indicating the level of seriousness of the infection. 

In simpler terms, the CT count tells you whether you are Covid-19 positive or not and to what extent the infection has spread in your body. 

As samples move through cycles, the sooner the virus is detected, the higher the viral load is supposed to be.  

According to the ICMR, 35 is the number to confirm the presence of virus infection, which means if a person has a CT value of 35 or more, then they do not have Covid-19. People with a CT value of 25 to 34 are said to have mild signs of infection. But if this value is 24 or less, then the condition of such a patient can be very serious. 

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Disclaimer: editorji does not provide medical advice. The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained in this story are for informational purposes only. No material in this video is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have related to Covid-19.