Testing children in school bubbles

[MotherOfGremlins]

AIBU to think that in September, no one is going to be able to insist that my children are tested if they come down with covid symptoms?

Just that really. Due to sensory issues, one of them can't have the flu nasal spray and has to have a vaccination by injection - they just can't cope with anything being inserted into their throat or nose. Not sure how the other would cope - possibly okay - and if so, they could have a test if necessary.

We won't be testing DD and school can't force the matter. However it would be reasonable if there is a positive case elsewhere in the school and my DD comes down symptoms I would assume she is positive and her school have said the same.

@IceCreamAndCandyfloss

No if they refuse to test it doesn’t count. School places should be withdrawn for those that refuse to test and put the safety of others above a short quick test.

That's quite concerning then. It's one thing to refuse a test but if that then hides a potential outbreak, with associated risks for others in that bubble, then that needs addressing.

What about anti vaxers out of interest?

Should they not be allowed their kids in school if they don't have their kids vaccinated?

@Enoughnowstop

what do you think should happen, OP? because whilst I sympathise that it's a rotten test for children (as it stands = saliva test will hopefully make it all easier) schools need to know and families need to know. Some school staff are vulnerable. Some children in school are vulnerable. We need to know if we have been exposed to the virus. It is not up for discussion.

What I think should happen is that I'd isolate us, and let the school know what was going on so they could let people know there was a suspected case if they were obliged to. If anyone else in my family had symptoms, they'd be tested (but not the child with sensory difficulties).

@IceCreamAndCandyfloss

No if they refuse to test it doesn’t count. School places should be withdrawn for those that refuse to test and put the safety of others above a short quick test.

Why punish a child for their disability when they can just isolate? My child has a right to their education as much as any other, and I'm glad we have the right to refuse something that would be properly traumatic for them.

We wouldn't be trying to hide anything from the school, nor would we recklessly ignore the self isolation rules.

I think the difficulty is with PHE declaring an outbreak or not. If a child/children won't be tested then the isolation of the bubble won't happen. I wonder if they've got an alternative plan for if this should happen?