The Singapore government began the distribution of antigen rapid test (ART) kits to all primary school students on September 13, 2021. A test kit for Covid 19 is being handed to every child as students return to school after their September holidays.
In fact, each child reportedly received three test kits for Covid-19.
However, the instructions that came along with the test kits have left the children and even the adults at home confused.
Parents told The Straits Times that the school told some kids to take one test on Monday and report the result on Tuesday. Meanwhile, another set of parents claim that they’ve been asked to take one test and report the result by the end of the week.
In a third and bizarre scenario, parents say that some schools suggested that kids take the antigen rapid test but not report the results.
Taking the test though was only to acquaint the kids with the procedure, and is a part of the four-pronged approach to fight the virus.
Test Kits For Covid 19 Shared With Students To Curb Cases
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Education Minister Chan Chun Sing shared in a Facebook post on Sunday (September 12) about the distribution of the ART kits to all primary school students.
The government’s four-pronged approach also includes keeping children at home if they are unwell, as well as enhancing safe management measures in schools. It also includes ring-fencing around known Covid-19 cases.
Chan encouraged families to get students to do a self-test at home this week. The one-time sweep will “ensure that our children are safe,” said Chan.
Test Kits Allow For Quick Results In Case Of A Covid-19 Scare
The Ministry of Education (MOE) reportedly issued a letter to parents about the test kits. The kits are necessary in case a child has been exposed or is possibly carrying the Covid-19 infection.
The ministry said that parents would need to help kids to conduct the ART swab. They need to store the remaining test kits in a clean and safe place for future use.
While it’s a great idea that kids can independently conduct the test, the vagueness of the instructions has left a few parents perplexed.
Meanwhile, some parents argued that the test kit for Covid 19 should’ve been given to students before the schools closed for holidays. That way the kids test themselves beforehand before they come back, adding an extra layer of safety.
While parents agreed that the multiple ART kits are aimed to familiarise students with the self-testing process, many argued that the kits were being wasted. More so, since every child needs to take it and then present the results at some point.
Nevertheless, parents also pointed out to that the schools did a good job at distributing the kits to students. Some children though are still to get their ART kits.
Parents don’t want to switch back to home-based learning
The report further reveals that while parents are concerned about the infections, they don’t want children going back to home-based learning (HBL). It brings its own set of problems including increased screen time, lesser physical activity and mental burnout.
Meanwhile, parents are doing their bit to keep the kids safe. This includes limiting social interactions, curbing outdoor visits, and maintaining personal hygiene at all times.
Watch: How To Administer Antigen Rapid Test For Children
For parents who are struggling to use the ART kits, here’s a video to explain how it works.
Did you receive a test kit for your child and have you tried it yet? Let us know in our Facebook comments section.
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