Covid-19 Tests: What to expect at ports of entry

Black and Asian ethnicities are up to twice as likely to be infected with Covid-19 compared to white individuals.

Black and Asian ethnicities are up to twice as likely to be infected with Covid-19 compared to white individuals.

Published Nov 4, 2020

Share

CAPE TOWN -

While airports are leaning towards a global testing guideline to waive strict quarantine requirements that are impacting travel, South Africa has implemented a ‘red list’ and requires a negative PCR test conducted at least 72 hours before departure.

To ensure the safety of all passengers and staff, travelers who show symptoms at arrival will be required to conduct a rapid test at the ports of entry.

Prof Anne von Gottberg, clinical microbiologist at the NICD, explains that the test results can be ready within 30 minutes.

ALSO SEE: TRAVEL: DOES THE UPDATED ‘RED LIST’ LIST HELP THE SA ECONOMY?

“This antigen rapid test is similar to that of a pregnancy test which can be done by medical staff at ports of entry,” said Von Gottberg.

“The idea is that the specimen does not have to get to a laboratory, but rather the test be done at the port of entry,” she said.

For LIVE updates on the Coronavirus pandemic, follow us on Twitter:

sacoronamonitor

CORONAVIRUS MONITOR

Related Topics:

Covid-19