PASSENGERS arriving in Bahrain will have to take only one PCR test as part of updated Covid-19 protocols commencing on Sunday.
Unvaccinated visitors aged 12 and above will have to quarantine for 10 days at their residences.
The new protocols were announced yesterday by Health Ministry Under-Secretary Dr Waleed Al Manea during a virtual Press conference at the Crown Prince Centre for Training and Medical Research, Riffa.
The single RT-PCR test will cost BD12, he said.
Earlier, passengers arriving in Bahrain had to shell out BD36 for three RT-PCR tests – the first one at Bahrain International Airport followed by two more on the fifth and 10th day of arrival.
Dr Al Manea also said that as part of the new protocols, travellers will have to provide a negative Covid-19 test result 72 hours prior to boarding their flight to Bahrain – instead of the previously required 48 hours.
“New decisions will come into effect this Sunday as part of the next phase of combating the virus,” he said.
“PCR testing will be ramped up for those who exhibit symptoms such as fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Those who emerge positive in a rapid antigen test and those who come in contact with active cases and show symptoms will also have to take PCR tests.
“Screening will be intensified with more rapid tests for all those who work in vital and active sectors.”
Bahrain has done more than eight million RT-PCR tests since the outbreak of the pandemic, with an average of over 20,000 a day.
Taskforce Monitoring Committee head Lieutenant Colonel Dr Manaf Al Qahtani reaffirmed that public health has always been and will continue to be a priority.
He added that individual responsibility was vital to ensure continued success in combating the virus.
“It is critical for everyone to be responsible in implementing precautionary measures,” said Lt Col Dr Al Qahtani.
“In the first stages of the pandemic, we didn’t have enough information, medication, a treatment protocol or vaccination, and so dealing with the virus was different.
“At this stage, it is unrealistic to apply the same protocols – now that we are more informed and prepared.
“The virus doesn’t just come from abroad, so closing down borders is not an option.”
However, he urged citizens and residents to refrain from unnecessary travel despite Bahrain’s stable situation as the virus is battering other countries across the world.
“There are humanitarian and special cases that require travel, but it is better to postpone other plans,” he said.
“If you choose to travel, you must take precautionary measures and keep wearing face masks, regardless of the protocol in other countries.
“Upon returning to Bahrain, you must avoid coming in contact with people – especially those with low immunity.
“If you have symptoms, immediately get tested and isolate yourself.
“We must act responsibly to protect the community.
“Restrictions could be eased further in future, depending on the situation,” he added.
reem@gdn.com.bh
&uuid=(email))