The COVID-19 virus has become an increasing cause of concern since the beginning of 2020. Parents are confused about whether they should take their children for COVID-19 testing if they notice any troubling symptoms.
Therefore, the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended consulting a pediatrician who’s in a better position to guide whether the child needs to undergo the COVID-19 testing.
In this blog, we’ve covered specific guidelines for COVID-19 testing for kids.
What Are COVID-19 Testing Types for Children?
The three COVID-19 test types available for children include:- Rapid Antigen Testing
- PCR Testing
- Antibody Testing
1. COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing
This is the usual nasal swab test for diagnosing the COVID-19 virus. It’s recommended for children and infants of every age if they show active symptoms of the infection. It has the highest credibility and results are available immediately. If it comes positive, your child has COVID-19 and needs pediatric guidance for diet and isolation. It also shows your child’s immune system’s resistance to the virus.2. COVID-19 PCR Testing
This PCR test carries out with a nasal swab or saliva sample. It diagnoses the presence of the COVID-19 virus in the body but doesn’t assess the immune system resistance. The results become available within 2-3 working days.3. COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing
It’s not a diagnostic test; it’s only a blood test to detect whether your child had contracted the COVID-19 virus in the past. It shows whether your child’s body has developed antibodies against the virus.
Who Should be Tested?
Every child isn’t eligible for COVID-19 testing. Children who show cough, breathing difficulties, or fever symptoms, children who have a history of contacting COVID-19 positive people, or children who have weak immune systems, are advised to get tested for COVID-19 infection.How to Manage a Positive COVID-19 Child?
You shouldn’t panic if your child’s COVID-19 test report is positive. Follow these recommendations for a smooth recovery.- Isolate your child from friends and family members as much as you can;
- Encourage hand washing and sanitizing;
- Wear masks at home;
- Inform at school and request for ten days leave;
- Disinfect your household daily;
- Seek pediatrician’s guidelines for diet planning and isolation activities.