Open letter gives advice on when children should be tested for covid

With schools now reopened, Scotland’s education secretary, John Swinney, has asked education chiefs to help share more information on coronavirus to parents and carers.
Pupils at Holyrood Secondary School, Glasgow, wearing face coverings. Photo: John DevlinPupils at Holyrood Secondary School, Glasgow, wearing face coverings. Photo: John Devlin
Pupils at Holyrood Secondary School, Glasgow, wearing face coverings. Photo: John Devlin

National clinical director Jason Leitch has also written an open letter offering information about when children need to be tested for coronavirus.

Testing is only recommended in the case of continuous cough, fever or loss of or change in the senses of taste or smell. Senior clinicians continue to monitor the most relevant symptoms and will adjust their recommendations if necessary.

Should a child in your care develop such symptoms they should self-isolate and testing should be booked as soon as possible online here or by calling 0800 028 2816.

Mr Swinney said: “We know that many concerned parents, acting in their children’s best interests, have been keeping children off school. Parents, carers and schools need clear and simple national information, and that is why we are providing further advice today.

“It is critical that we remain vigilant for the symptoms of Covid-19 and this information explains the actions that we should take if someone develops signs of Covid-19 symptoms, either at school or at home.

“We will ensure that pupils, teachers and other school staff get the support they need to remain safe and feel comfortable in the school environment.”