Vaccinations have been crucial in slowing down the spread of COVID-19. However, the presence of the COVID-19 Omicron variant and a recent rise in cases means that we still need to take precautions against infection. Parents might also be wondering how their children should get tested if their child is experiencing symptoms or has come into contact with someone who has tested positive.
Unfortunately, the school guidelines for testing children can vary dramatically. The following is the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on testing children for COVID-19.
When should I take my child for testing?
Testing criteria for children may vary between localities but in general, testing is required:
- If your child has been exposed to someone that has tested positive for COVID-19.
- If your child exhibits symptoms of COVID-19 (eg. fever, cough, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and rash). Most children with COVID-19 will have a mild version of the virus and may exhibit no symptoms at all. In cases where symptoms are concerning, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
- If your child’s school, day care or a hospital requires a COVID-19 test.
- If testing is needed as a precaution before and after traveling
What types of COVID-19 tests exist?
An active COVID-19 infection can be tested via a nasopharyngeal sample collected by inserting ling nasal swab into the back of the nose with the following tests:
- PCR test – A PCR test is considered the most accurate COVID-19 test available. Test results may take a few days, typically 24-72 hours
- Rapid COVID-19 Anitgen test – The test is quick and results are produced within a few minutes during the office visit; however, the rapid test is slightly less accurate than a PCR test.
Should I take my child for testing right away if they have symptoms of COVID-19 or if they come into contact with someone that has COVID-19?
For children exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, a PCR test or Rapid test can be performed right away.
For unvaccinated children who have come into close contact with someone that has COVID-19, testing should be performed no earlier than 5 days after contact with that individual. Any test that is done earlier than 5 days after contact with someone that has COVID-19 significantly increase the chance of a false-negative result. This is true for both PCR and Rapid Antigen testing. Children who have been fully vaccinated can be tested as early as day 3 post-contact.
My child is fully vaccinated. Should they still get tested for COVID-19?
Fully vaccinated children or adults can still get infected COVID-19. Vaccination itself does not prevent infection from COVID-19. What vaccination does is dramatically reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalization or death if someone is infected with COVID-19.
Therefore, if you believe your child has been infected or has come into close contact with someone that has tested positive for COVID-19, then a test should be considered. Those who are fully vaccinated should get tested no earlier than 3-5 days after their suspected exposure, even if they do not have symptoms. If tested earlier, the chances of a false-negative result increases.
I think my child has COVID-19, what should I do?
If you suspect your child has COVID-19 the following steps should be taken.
- Get your child tested and self quarantine home while waiting for the results. Be aware that your child’s school or daycare may have rules on when and how they get tested. For example, some facilities will only accept a PCR test result for clearance to return to school. Find out what their requirements are as soon as possible.
- Closely monitor their symptoms. Symptoms such as difficulty breathing, shortness of breath or a very high temperature are serious. Contact a healthcare provider immediately if these or other concerning symptoms appear.
- If not done already, contact your child’s school or daycare to inform them of your child’s status.
Where can I take my child for testing?
A Plus Family Urgent Care offers COVID-19 testing for children. If your child needs a COVID-19 test, you can schedulean appointment at APlusFamilyUC.com