A new medical device, manufactured and developed in Melbourne, is helping reduce the anxiety some Victorian kids have been when being swabbed for COVID-19.
The Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and Royal Children’s Hospital are trialling a new device—Rhinomed Junior—to test children for COVID-19.
The device sits at the base of the nose and collects virus particles for testing. It comes in a range of colours and designs, such as moustaches and cat noses, making the whole procedure a lot less stressful, an official press release said.
Rhinomed Junior is currently being trialled with PCR tests at the Royal Children’s Hospitals drive through COVID-19 testing clinic, which tests about 1500 children for COVID-19 per week.
About 250 children aged four to 18 will trial the device over the six-week trial and the results will be compared with ‘traditional’ testing methods.
Alternative COVID-19 testing methods are going to be needed to maintain high testing rates in the community. Children, especially young children, can often become stressed during tests which not only makes it harder to obtain a sample but is also distressing for the parents and treating clinicians.
The rate at which the device is inserted into the nose can be controlled by the young person which makes the experience less traumatic for all.
With a vaccine for children under 12 years yet to be approved and new variants continuing to emerge, nasal swabbing and testing remains the most effective tool in limiting the spread of COVID-19 amongst the youngest Victorians—which is why new technology that makes it even easier is so important.
Follow The Indian Sun on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
