Positive followed by negative PCR

[Atomsaway]

Hi all,
Quick question. A contact of mine tested positive with no symptoms, as part of some kind of weekly testing scheme. Partner tested negative at the same time. Following a re test, two days later, he tested negative.
Test and trace have told him he has to isolate, as do all the contacts, despite the negative result.
Is this correct?

Yes that’s correct

Thanks. Can you point me to a site where it states this mighty if possible?

Yes, that is correct. Positive lateral flow tests are now being treated in the same way as positive PCR tests. The tests have high specificity.

Sorry I should have asked for more details, what type of these was it? And when was it? Rules changed this week ...as always

If the first was an LFD, from Monday this week, a confirmatory PCR was no longer needed, the Positive LFD only triggered the legal need to self isolate on its own

Both tests were PCR. I read that the WHO recommended a second test for asymptomatic positives.
First test was on Tuesday. Result (positive) came on Friday. Second test was on Friday. Result (negative) came today.
No lateral flow involved.
Thanks for your replies.

So he could have been within his infectious window when he took the first test but out of it when he took the second, I guess. But the law is the law!

Okay that’s straight forward enough then, yes the first positive test is used, the second negative one makes no difference at all to that

Thanks mighty. It’s all very confusing. I have struggled to find this information.