COVID-19, AKA the SARS-nCoV-2 or coronavirus, is a new virus strain that’s super contagious and causes fever, dry cough, chest infection, and breathing problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) initially stated that people with underlying medical conditions and the elderly are more likely to catch the virus. But that’s not the case anymore.
After a year since the coronavirus emerged, scientists and medical experts have confirmed that people of all age groups can catch COVID-19, including children.
Read on to learn more about COVID-19 and children, and how you can prepare for a COVID-19 test if your little one is showing its symptoms.
The Global Pandemic
According to stats, over 78 million people have been affected by the virus, of which 12% are kids. Although 4.4% of children are asymptomatic, it’s essential to pay close attention to any possible symptoms to curb virus transmission.
When Should You Get Your Child Tested for COVID-19?
No matter how mild your kid’s symptoms are, sign them up for COVID-19 testing right away. The earliest symptoms include fever, cough, and runny nose, leading to fatigue and shortness of breath.
Because all respiratory symptoms have similar symptoms, differentiating between the common cold and COVID-19 can be quite tricky. In this case, your best bet is to get tested ASAP.
Importance of COVID-19 Testing in Kids
COVID-19 symptoms occur 2 to 14 days after exposure, typically in the first five days. WHO urges that children can transmit the virus faster than adults, and therefore, getting them tested right away is essential.
There are two main types of coronavirus detection tests available for kids:
PCR Nasal Swab Test
The standard, most common COVID19 test is the PCR test. It is performed by taking a nasal or saliva sample for virus detection. This makes PCR tests more sensitive, time-consuming, and slightly more painful than the antigen test.
The test for PCR test is generally available after two days of sample collection.
Rapid Antigen Test
A rapid antigen test detects the proteins created by the immune system to fight coronavirus. This test is more accurate if your little one is currently exhibiting symptoms because their body is fighting the virus at that time.
This test is not painful or irritating and can be performed on infants as well as older kids. A nasal swab is placed lightly inside the nose without causing any disruption, and the results come out within 20 minutes.
Antibodies Test
This swift, quick blood test detects the presence of antibodies in a patient’s blood. Medical experts are still learning about this new virus strain and are unsure whether active antibodies create virus immunity or not. Like the PCR, the result of an antibody test is also usually available after two days of sample collection.
Want to Get Your Little One Tested For COVID-19?
A Thru Z Pediatrics is a full-service pediatric medical center in Stone Oak, San Antonio, TX. We offer safe, reliable, and efficient COVID-19 testing services for children. We follow all the necessary protocols and keep our patients’ safety our utmost priority.
Our services also include vaccinations and pediatrics allergy testing, among many others. Learn more about our pediatric treatments or book an online appointment right away!
Find out more about our best pediatrician San Antonio here.