PCR test on 11 month old

[RosieLee2019]

So my DS has a cold and chesty cough. I presume the cough is just a symptom of his cold, but I went to get him PCR-tested today just in case. He’s due to start nursery this week so I didn’t want to take any risks. TBH, until recently I didn’t realise you could do tests on babies under 1. Do other people get their babies tested every time they have a cough? I’m just anticipating that this could become a regular occurrence over winter!!

I'd get him tested. My dd had to have a pcr at only 17 days old.

Yes sorry, it's likely nursery will require testing every time he gets a cough... And that will probably be quite a lot after starting nursery :(

You will either have to test him or keep him off nursery for 10 days every time he has a cough. Only you know which is the best approach for you and your family.

Thanks all. Thankfully his test came back within 10 hours (negative) so all good. Guess I better get used to the trip to the test centre!!

How massive are the swabs? I could barely fit the swab up my 18 month olds nostril, let alone up her actual nose. I doubt I’m doing a remotely accurate test but if that’s the swabs they provide then what are you supposed to do! 🤷🏼‍♀️

Glad it was negative OP! I've done many PCRs ony now 17-month old. Our nursery requires a negative PCR before DC can return after any illness involving a temperature or cough which is pretty often at the moment. I hate doing it to him but I can't keep him at home for 10 days every illness as I have to work

We have to do them a lot on my 19 month old for the Childminders. My top tip is to order the home test and do it while they sleep if it's tricky when they're awake.

Slightly longer turnaround but much easier to do the actual test!

I haven't with dds pre school they've said it's not necessary. There's been loads of bugs going round