NEW COVID TEST RULES: Covid-19 rapid test ‘must include swabs of throat and nose’
A RAPID test for Covid-19 must include swabs of both the throat and the nose.
The revised testing protocol for coronavirus was announced last night by the Health Ministry following the emergence of the Omicron variant.
As per the guidelines, individuals are instructed to do both nasal and throat swabs, using the same kit.
The ministry urged people to follow instructions provided with the rapid testing device.
Details are available on the ministry’s social media.
The ministry added that the used tools must be sealed in a plastic bag and kept outside for three days after which it can be treated as normal waste. If the result is positive, a PCR test must be performed.
The rapid test result must be uploaded via the BeAware app and the tested person should go directly to the drive-through testing centre at either the King Hamad University Hospital in Busaiteen, Derasat in the Southern Governorate or Salman City in the Northern Governorate without the need to call 444.
The rapid test device must be taken along, in a transparent airtight bag.
The individual must isolate, avoid interaction with others and wear a face mask.
