Parents often wonder if testing for COVID-19 is an option for infants. Babies can indeed be tested for COVID-19. While the process might seem intimidating, it is generally considered safe and feasible for even the youngest patients.
How Babies are Tested for COVID-19
The most common method for collecting a sample from an infant for COVID-19 testing involves a nasal swab. This can be either a nasopharyngeal swab, which reaches further into the nasal cavity, or an anterior nasal swab, which involves swabbing just inside the nostril. For a nasopharyngeal swab, a healthcare provider gently inserts a thin, flexible swab through the nostril until it reaches the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nose. The swab is then rotated for several seconds to collect secretions before being carefully removed.
For an anterior nasal swab, the soft tip is inserted about 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch into the nostril and rotated against the nasal wall for approximately 15 seconds, then repeated in the other nostril. Healthcare providers take precautions, wearing masks, gowns, gloves, and face shields, to protect themselves and the baby. Parents are encouraged to hold and comfort their baby during the procedure, perhaps by holding them in their lap, swaddling them, or offering a pacifier or bottle. The swab may cause the baby’s eyes to water or make them feel like sneezing, but the process is quick.
When to Consider Testing Your Baby
Testing your baby for COVID-19 is considered when they display symptoms consistent with the virus or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. Common symptoms in infants include fever, cough, runny nose, or nasal congestion. Some babies might also experience a sore throat, fatigue, or gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In some instances, infants may show no symptoms at all.
If your baby has been exposed to someone with a confirmed COVID-19 infection, testing is recommended. For babies with symptoms, testing should occur without delay. If there has been exposure but no symptoms, it is advised to test at least five days after the last exposure. Consulting with a pediatrician is important; they can assess your baby’s situation, evaluate symptoms that might overlap with other common illnesses like the flu or RSV, and provide guidance.
Types of COVID-19 Tests for Infants
Two primary types of COVID-19 tests are available: PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests and antigen tests. PCR tests are molecular tests that detect the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, making them highly accurate for diagnosing an active infection. These tests involve a nasal or throat swab, and the sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Results from PCR tests can take 24 hours or longer, though turnaround times have improved. PCR tests are recommended for infants, especially those under two years old, due to their high sensitivity.
Antigen tests, also known as rapid tests, work by detecting specific viral proteins. These tests can be performed at a doctor’s office, testing facility, or at home, providing results within minutes. While convenient for quick results, antigen tests may be less sensitive than PCR tests, particularly in individuals with low viral loads or who are asymptomatic.
For infants, rapid antigen tests may be safely used, but a parent or guardian should administer them. Your baby’s healthcare provider can help determine which test is most suitable based on their symptoms and exposure history.