Johns Hopkins study suggests rapid COVID-19 tests could be as accurate as PCR tests for children – CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE (WJZ) – A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine shows that a rapid antigen test is as accurate as a PCR test in children.

In a 7-month study in 2021, 1054 patients under the age of 17 had both PCR and rapid antigen testing at the Baltimore Convention Center Field Hospital. According to the researchers, of the cases detected using the PCR test, 92.7% of them were also detected by the rapid antigen test.

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According to BCCFH clinical assistant, Mary Jane Vaeth, the results of the study for both symptomatic and asymptomatic children should give parents and school administrators more confidence in rapid tests.

Medical Director at BCCFH, Zishan Siddiqui, also added that this study could play an important role in allowing students to limit their absence from school during quarantine or awaiting PCR test results. their back.

“The way I see the value of this research, especially in these days when COVID is so common, we have some layers of safety. We have masks, we have social distancing, we have good ventilation, we have hand washing… this gives you another tool,” explains Siddiqui.

The study was conducted when the Delta variant was dominant, but the researchers say rapid tests may not be necessary depending on a study done with the omicron variant currently predominating.

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“If further studies with the highly infectious omicron variant reveal a very high viral load and rapid antigenic accuracy, these tests may be possible,” the researchers said. become one of the most valuable tools used to combat current and future COVID-19 variants.”

The researchers added that a negative rapid test in children should not be a substitute for other COVID-19 prevention measures, including social distancing and concealment.

According to Siddiqui, these findings are significant because the rapid test offers advantages over the PCR test. This includes saving time and money.

There is also the ease of distribution and adoption of rapid antigen tests, which could help bridge disparities in COVID-19 testing for children in medically underserved communities. .

Read the full study below:

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