Covid-19
Prevent the Spread of Covid-19
COVID-19 is a strain of the coronavirus that caused a global pandemic after its emergence in December of 2019. While most people who get COVID-19 experience mild, cold-like symptoms, some children and teens experience more severe symptoms and even death.
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Children's Clinic offers free vaccinations to eligible children and adults and in-office PCR testing for COVID with rapid results (less than 1 hour).
Same-day COVID-19 testing and vaccinations for eligible patients help protect your child, family, and community from the coronavirus.
The Children’s Clinic in Billings, Montana, offers convenient, in-office testing and free COVID vaccinations for children 12 and up at both its West End and downtown office. If your child has symptoms or you would like to lower their risk of getting COVID-19, call one of the offices or request an appointment online today.
Covid-19 Q&A
For COVID-19 testing or vaccination, call or request an appointment online with the Children's Clinic today.
When should my child get tested for COVID-19?
Children and teens who show symptoms of COVID-19 should get tested for the virus, especially if they have a known exposure to COVID-19.
Common symptoms include:
- Loss of taste or smell
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Muscle and body aches
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Congestion
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
If your child has had close contact with someone with COVID-19, call the Children’s Clinic’s phone triage nurse to determine if your child needs testing.
What test does the provider use for COVID-19 testing?
The Children's Clinic utilizes a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which is the current gold standard for COVID-19 testing and gives highly accurate results.
PCR testing detects the genetic material of active coronavirus in your child's sputum. The team collects a genetic sample using a nasal swab from your child's nose. It is not comfortable, but it only takes a second.
The Children's Clinic offers in-office testing, so you get the results within an hour. If your child tests positive, they ensure you understand the steps and precautions you need to treat your child and protect against further exposure.
How do I protect my child from COVID-19?
The Children's Clinic team strongly recommends that anyone eligible for the vaccine gets vaccinated. This is our best weapon to combat the spread of COVID-19.
The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services has approved the Children's Clinic as a COVID-19 vaccination site for children and adults 12 years old and up. Vaccinations are free for eligible patients and any family member or caregiver who would like to get vaccinated at the same time as their child.
It is safe to give the COVID-19 vaccine with other scheduled vaccinations, so your child can get immunized during a regular well-child visit, sports physical, or school physical. All patients must wait for at least 15 minutes after administration to ensure they don't react to the vaccine. If you have any questions, the Children’s Clinic team is happy to discuss COVID-19 testing or vaccinations.