A mandatory PCR test for Covid-19 has been ordered to all the government employees in Ras Al Khaimah. The Human Resource Department of the emirate announced on Saturday that all the employees must undergo a PCR Covid-19 test on every seventh day.

The authorities issued a statement through circular number 3 where they said that the mandatory PCR test should be done at employees own expenses. The requirement for compulsory tests will start from February 7 and will continue till the government advises or orders otherwise.

The decision will only be changed when there are some developments with regards to the Covid-19 pandemic or the top officials make any official announcements. This rule is applicable for all except those who have already taken the two doses of the Covid-19 vaccines shots from the designated healthcare centres and those who have provided a health report that forbids them from taking the vaccine shot.

Those who have certain health conditions and are forced to not take the Coronavirus vaccine for this very reason will be able to have PCR test at the government's expense. Other than the government agencies, the private companies, who are either outsourced or have contracted public services companies, must conduct the PCR test of their employees every three days. This is for those who have not already taken the vaccines shot.

The circular also clearly states that for those who have not yet been vaccinated due to the priority list order, the government employer will take care of the cost of testing which will be done at the medical centres affiliated to the Ministry of Health and Prevention. Only those employees will be exempted from paying for their own PCR tests.

The decision to make these changes have been taken by the government as the United Arab Emirates is trying very hard to curb the virus spread in the country and to do that even more efficiently, it is important that certain measures are taken in the interest of people. Regular testing will ensure that those who have contracted the virus do not come in contact with others and further spread it in the emirate. 

WAM