4.0 Diagnostic Guidelines for Paediatric Patients
Accurate and timely diagnosis is critical for controlling transmission, guiding appropriate clinical care, and protecting public health. Clinical presentation alone is insufficient for a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19.
The following diagnostic methodologies are recommended:
- Primary Standard: International guidelines designate nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), such as PCR tests, as the most reliable and prioritized method. These tests offer high sensitivity in detecting the virus’s genetic material.
- Alternative Method: Rapid antigen tests provide quicker results but have lower sensitivity. Healthcare providers must advise patients that if an initial antigen test is negative in a symptomatic individual, the test should be repeated after a few days to confirm the result.
The following testing protocols are recommended:
- Symptomatic Individuals: All persons exhibiting symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should be tested.
- Isolation Pending Results: Symptomatic individuals should remain in isolation until test results are confirmed to prevent potential transmission.
- Asymptomatic Exposure: Testing may be recommended for asymptomatic individuals who have a known history of contact with a confirmed case.
- Routine Screening: Routine screening is not recommended for asymptomatic individuals with no known exposure history.
Accurate diagnosis based on these guidelines is the critical first step for initiating appropriate clinical management and public health interventions, as outlined in the following section.