12 Jul Should You Get A Rapid PCR Test For Kids?

With the start of the summer travel and flu season coming in the middle of the pandemic, many parents may be worried about testing their kids for Covid. This virus shares many symptoms with other respiratory illnesses, such as flu-like symptoms, sore throat, and congestion, among others. There is no way to determine the cause of infection without testing. A rapid PCR test for kids makes in-home Covid testing before school begins both simple and comfortable.

What are your testing options for kids?

Covid-19 testing is the only way to tell if a child is infected with the coronavirus. The testing procedure in children is similar to that in adults. The standard PCR test (RT-PCR), the rapid antigen, and the rapid PCR test for kids are all authorized methods of Covid testing. What’s the difference between them?

The standard RT-PCR test

The RT-PCR test works by detecting the presence of viral RNA through a nasal swab. The test is extremely sensitive and can detect very small amounts of the virus.

• Pros: The test is accurate and efficient. It allows early detection of the infection and makes transmission less likely.
• Cons: Test evaluation can take more than 24 hours. The test needs highly qualified professionals to yield accurate results.

The rapid antigen test

The rapid antigen test for kids is a nasal swab diagnostic that detects the presence of proteins from the surface of the virus. The sample can be processed on site immediately using a handheld device.

No laboratories are involved, and results are available within 15 minutes. The process is entirely transparent, and there are no gaps for discrepancies. The nurse administering the test will be available to provide the best guidance after the results are derived.

• Pros: They are fast and comfortable, with results available within 15 minutes. They are relatively low-priced.
• Cons: The accuracy rate may be lower than the RT-PCR test.

The rapid PCR test

The rapid PCR test uses similar technology to the standard RT-PCR test. It is also a nasal swab that detects genetic material from the surface of the virus. Unlike its gold standard cousin, the rapid PCR test does not need to be sent to a lab for processing. The sample can be processed onsite and return results within 30 minutes of the test.

• Pros: Tests combine accuracy and speed when answers are needed most. Test results are available within 30 minutes.
• Cons: This test is only available from select providers. They can be expensive.

In-home rapid PCR tests may be a better choice

The Covid test may not be the easiest thing for young children. Unusually dressed adults pushing a long stick into the nasal cavity and triggering the lacrimal reflex can make children anxious.

While the test is quick, the fear factor is a significant challenge. In-home rapid tests can make the process easier in many ways.

1. Creating a familiar environment

Rapid PCR tests for kids can be administered in the comfort of a home, car, or parking lot. A familiar environment makes it easy for kids to cope up with the procedure. They tend to feel safer and more comfortable in their room than in a clinic or hospital.

If the child has been in contact with other family members, they can also take the test. Watching parents or other family members taking the test gives the kid more confidence.

2. Reduced anxiety for parents and kids

Results from the RT-PCR can take more than 24 hours. Socially distancing the child during the waiting time can be a real challenge, depending on their age. The quarantine period can also be stressful for kids. Parents waiting for results can be agitated.

In the case of the child testing negative for the infection, the prolonged mental agony of parents and children is just unwarranted. Rapid PCR test for kids is prompt, and the instant results take you quickly into the next course of treatment.
Covid symptoms in kids are mostly mild. However, the infection can cause irritation and severe fatigue. Getting to a hospital, waiting in rooms, and going through the test can be stressful for kids.

Rapid PCR tests allow them to rest more comfortably at home while trained professionals take care of the testing process.

3. A safer option for families

Visiting a clinic or hospital for testing exposes kids to other types of infections or illnesses. With an immune system that has already been weakened by illness, the risk is much greater.

In-home rapid tests lower the chance of infection for the kids as well as their family members. These tests prevent patients from using common spaces, thus controlling the spread of the disease.

4. Covid testing in schools

Vaccination rates among teachers and other members of schools are going up. Yet, testing continues to remain crucial for many reasons. Remember that young students may not be eligible for vaccinations for another year or so. Kids also tend to be less compliant with rules like social distancing, masking, and so on.

A lack of testing can impact the reopening of schools and the safety of students.

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