Testing infants for COVID-19 is generally possible and safe. While the process might seem daunting, understanding the types of tests available and how they are administered can help alleviate worries.
Types of Tests and How They Work for Babies
Two primary types of COVID-19 tests are rapid antigen tests and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. Rapid antigen tests identify specific viral proteins from SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. These tests are often performed using a nasal swab and provide quick results, usually within minutes. Many at-home rapid tests are antigen tests. However, their accuracy can be lower, especially in asymptomatic individuals or with certain variants.
PCR tests, considered the gold standard for COVID-19 detection, look for the virus’s genetic material (RNA); this molecular test involves amplifying tiny amounts of viral RNA to make it detectable. Samples for PCR tests are typically collected via a nasal or throat swab, and sometimes saliva. While PCR results can take longer, their higher sensitivity makes them more reliable for confirming an infection. For infants, healthcare providers often recommend professional administration of these tests to ensure proper sample collection and accuracy. When swabbing an infant, the technique is gentle, often involving an anterior nasal swab where the swab is inserted only a short distance into the nostril and rotated.
When and Where to Test Your Baby
Deciding when to test a baby for COVID-19 depends on the presence of symptoms or known exposure. Common symptoms in infants include fever, cough, runny nose, congestion, fatigue, and sometimes gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Babies under one year old, especially those born prematurely or with underlying health conditions, may be at higher risk for severe illness. Testing is recommended if a baby exhibits these symptoms or has been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. If exposed, testing about five days after the last exposure is suggested to minimize false negatives.
Parents have several options for obtaining a COVID-19 test for their baby. At-home rapid antigen tests are available at pharmacies and supermarkets. However, some at-home tests specify age minimums, often recommending use only for individuals aged two years or older. For infants, consulting a healthcare provider is highly recommended, as they can guide on the appropriate test type and collection method. Pediatrician offices, local testing sites, and urgent care centers are places where professional testing can be performed, ensuring the sample is collected correctly and safely.
Interpreting Results and Next Steps
Interpreting COVID-19 test results for infants requires careful attention. A positive rapid antigen test is highly accurate. If a rapid test is negative but symptoms persist or exposure was recent, a PCR test may be recommended to confirm the result. An inconclusive result means the test could not determine presence or absence of the virus, and retesting is necessary.
Following a positive test result, isolation measures are important. Infants cannot wear masks, so they need to isolate for around 10 days if they test positive. During isolation, monitor the baby for worsening symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, new confusion, or bluish lips or face, which warrant immediate medical attention. Even with a negative result, continued monitoring for symptoms is important. Regardless of the test outcome, contacting the baby’s healthcare provider is important for personalized guidance on care, monitoring, and when to seek further medical evaluation.