THL updates guidelines on coronavirus testing
THL has updated its guidelines on coronavirus testing according to the Government's testing strategy. The updated guidelines apply to seeking a test for adults and children and the use of home tests, and the confirmation of positive home testing results.
According to updated instructions, it is especially important for a vaccinated person with symptoms suggesting COVID-19 to be tested for coronavirus if they are pregnant, or if at least five months have elapsed from a second vaccination, and no third dose has been given.
If the symptoms are mild, and the person is not part of an at-risk group for severe coronavirus disease, they can also take a home antigen test. If the home test gives a positive result, the result should be confirmed by a test conducted by health care personnel, if there is a need for an official decision for isolation. After a positive result from a home test, it is important to avoid contacts voluntarily.
Read more about other situations in which it is important to be tested for coronavirus: Coronavirus tests
Changes related to coronavirus testing for children
THL recommends testing children under 12 for coronavirus especially if the child has symptoms and if the child's family includes persons over the age of 16 who have not been vaccinated or whose immune protection against COVID-19 is inadequate.
Testing is still recommended when the child has symptoms and is known to have been exposed to a confirmed coronavirus case within the preceding two weeks.
Children can also be tested with a home antigen test. A positive result in a home test sometimes needs to be confirmed by a test administered by health care personnel.
Read more on what to do if a child or young person gets coronavirus symptoms: Children and coronavirus
Also check instructions home tests:
