Authorities in the UAE have set up drive-through coronavirus test centers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In Dubai, Al Futtaim Health is offering this service, asking people to use its online assessment tool to find out if they are eligible for the test. Just open the site and interact with the chatbot, answer the questions, and book an appointment (if you have symptoms of this virus). Please note, not everyone can avail the drive-through coronavirus test. Only people who are showing symptoms, have had close contact with a virus patient, are in a vulnerable group, or have a travel history in the last 14 days will be entertained.
Those who will get an appointment should show up at the testing center at the given time and date. In Dubai, there are four drive-through coronavirus test centers at the moment, which operate in Dubai Festival City, Al Qusais, Silicon Oasis, and Discovery Gardens. Two more will start working soon in Al Warqa and International City.
At the testing centers, the patients will be tested through a nasal swab, after which they can go back home. The test result will come after two to three days. In the meantime, the patient must remain indoors and practice self-isolation. If the result is ‘negative’, the patient will know about it through an SMS.
The “coronavirus positive” patient will receive a call from a medical professional and will either have to visit a hospital or practice self-quarantine at home, depending on the severity of the condition. Please note, such patients will have to undergo contact tracing, where people they have been in close contact with will be traced and tested.
The cost of the test at drive-through test centers is Dh425 and it may or may not be covered by your insurer, so please check with your insurance company.
Abu Dhabi residents can take the test in Zayed Sports City through the Department of Health’s website: https://www.doh.gov.ae or call the toll free number 8001717.
Source and Image: GulfNews