UAE is witnessing a rise in COVID-19 cases. Therefore, it is important for community members to understand the protocols if the PCR test comes positive and when there is a close contact with a infected person. UAE authorities have introduced several measures to limit the spread of the virus and enhance the safety of the public.

Here are the protocols:

Dubai

Any individual who test positive for COVID-19 is required to isolate for 10 days, even if they don't have symptoms. According to the Dubai Health Authority, the individual is also required to download the Covid-19 DXB app. Failing to do so will result in a Dh10,000 fine.

Then, the person must immediately isolate in a separate room from family members and inform their employer. For close contacts, they must isolate themselves before receiving the PCR test result. Infected individual and close contact must stay in separate rooms. As per the rules, 10-day home isolation period is mandatory with the first day starting from the day the PCR test was taken.

It is also important that none of the household members are high-risk and they follow COVID-19 safety protocols. Furthermore, disposable cutlery and plates must be used for infected persons.

There is no need to take another PCR test after the completion of 10 days of isolation. If any symptoms are observed, the individual must contact DHA on 800 342 to book a virtual medical consultation. On completion of the isolation period, a clearance certificate will be sent by the authorities via SMS. People can also access their certificate through the Covid-19 DXB app or by calling 800 342. At the same time, people who are unable to isolate at home can undergo institutional quarantine by paying the necessary cost.

Protocols for close contacts in Dubai

As per the DHA guidelines, close contacts are categorised as those who have been less than 1m apart from an infected someone individual for at least 15 minutes. Close contacts are required to quarantine for seven days, with the period beginning two days before the confirmed case took a PCR test or displayed symptoms. After the seven-day isolation, there is no need for testing if no symptoms develop. If symptoms appear, the individual must quarantine for 10 days.

Abu Dhabi

Once a positive test result is generated, the individual will receive a text message from SEHA directing them to report to Mafraq Hospital's Prime Assessment Centre, near Baniyas, on the outskirts of the capital. At the Centre, patients are registered to the online health portal Salamtak and then a medical check-up conducted.

High-risk patients, such as the elderly, those with chronic diseases or people with severe symptoms, may have to take additional tests such as heart monitoring, blood tests, X-ray, and CT scan. It was followed by consultation with doctor for further assessment and treatment.

People with mild or no symptoms will be issued an electronic tracker watch for 10-day quarantine either at home or institutional facility. Abu Dhabi authorities have dropped the tracking watch requirement for travellers.

In Abu Dhabi, COVID-19 positive patients can also visit the Prime Assessment Centre in Al Mushrif at Al Mushrif Wedding Hall. As per the updated timing, people aged 60 and above, those with chronic diseases and people with symptoms who have been in contact with a positive case in Al Ain can visit the assessment centre in the Red Hall at Al Khabaisi daily from 8 am to 10 pm. They can also visit screening centres at Asharej, Al Sarouj and Al Hili from Saturday to Thursday between 8 am to 7.30 pm and on Friday from 10 am to 7.30 pm.

Rules for close contacts in Abu Dhabi

Vaccinated people coming in close contact with a positive case must quarantine for seven days and get a PCR test. Another test must be conducted on day six of quarantine. Meanwhile, unvaccinated people are required to quarantine for 10 days, take a test and take additional test on day nine of quarantine.

Close contacts enrolled in the self-quarantine programme should visit the COVID-19 assessment centre in the Yellow Hall at Zayed Port, Al Mina. In Al Ain, they can visit the nearest SEHA drive-through screening centre. People displaying symptoms should visit Al Ain Hospital. Failure in compliance with COVID-19 protocols will invite a fine of Dh50,000.