The antigen programme for primary schools and childcare services is no longer running.
The information on this page is about using antigen tests you buy in a shop or pharmacy.
If your child has symptoms
If your child has symptoms of COVID-19:
- keep them at home
- wear a medical, respirator or well-fitted face mask around other people, depending on their age
Most children do not need to get tested unless they have symptoms and they:
- have a condition that puts them at higher risk
- live with someone who has a weak immune system
How to do an antigen test with your child
To do the antigen test you use a swab to take a sample from your child's nose.
When you have finished with an antigen test, put it in a plastic bag and put the bag in your bin.
Read step-by-step advice on how to do an antigen test
Watch a video on doing an antigen test with a child:
Antigen test results
The test will show the result in about 15 minutes. The results are quicker than a PCR test because the sample does not need to go to a lab.
There are 3 types of antigen test results:
- Positive (detected)
- Negative (not detected)
- Invalid