Dubai opens two more COVID-19 PCR testing centres

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has added two more COVID-19 PCR testing centres to the list of accredited establishment conducting the tests on Sunday.  

The DHA said that Al Safa Health Centre and Nad Al Sheba Centre for Ladies are now open to the public.

Customer can book an appointment through DHA App or by calling 800342.

The DHA said the fee of the COVID-19 PCR test in all private sector facilities would not exceed Dhs150 and would cover all services of collecting the nasal swab, making the lab test and issuing the result or the certificate.  

The DHA warned against the imposition of any extra fees such as express testing fees or fees for faster issuance of result, noting that the COVID-19 PCR test is limited to collecting a nasal swab in the DHA-licensed health facilities.

On the other hand, it is for the health, safety and security of everyone if anyone who goes for a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test, do the responsible act of self-isolation while practising all precautionary measures until guaranteed that he is not stricken with the dreadful persisting mutated SARS-CoV2-causing Novel Coronavirus (COVID19).

The self-isolation is important as it is necessary or even mandatory since “this is crucial to protect your family and the community at large,” said Dubai Health Authority (DHA)-Health Promotion and Education head Dr. Hind Al Awadhi on Monday.

In case of a negative PCR test, the close contacts must still exercise the full 10-day necessary self-quarantine. They are not required to undergo the PCR test “unless they develop the symptoms.; however, they (may opt to.)”

Meanwhile, professional disinfection of the bedroom and bathroom of the COVID-19 patient “can only take place after the person has no fever for the last three consecutive days of the isolation period (without using any fever medication); and, after completing the duration of the isolation period which will be 10 days or longer depending on the individual’s case.”