Taking the sting out of kids Covid tests

Parents will be relieved to learn a trial is currently underway for a new Covid test for children.

The government said the new device – Rhinoswab Junior – will take the sting out of Covid testing for kids.

Currently being trialled at the Royal Children’s Hospital, the device sits at the base of the nose and collects virus particles for testing. It comes in a range of colours and designs, such as moustaches and cat noses, and is designed to make the whole procedure a lot less stressful.

About 250 children aged four to 18 will trial the device over the six-week trial and the results will be compared with ‘traditional’ testing methods.

The government said alternative COVID-19 testing methods are going to be needed to maintain high testing rates in the community.

Children, especially young children, can often become stressed during tests which not only makes it harder to obtain a sample but is also distressing for the parents and treating clinicians.

The rate at which the device is inserted into the nose can be controlled by the young person which makes the experience less traumatic for all.

With a vaccine for children under 12 years yet to be approved and new variants continuing to emerge, nasal swabbing and testing remains the most effective tool in limiting the spread of COVID-19 amongst the youngest Victorians – which is why new technology that makes it even easier is so important.

The new device is manufactured and developed in Melbourne.

Trial Lead Dr Shidan Tosif said: “Rhinoswab Junior has the potential to turn an unpleasant experience into a more relaxed and possibly even fun experience for children.”