Police lab being used for Covid-19 PCR tests for tourists

PCR tests for Covid-19 for tourists can now be conducted at the police laboratory.

While PCR testing for travellers was being conducted at five hospitals across the country since August 15, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) on Wednesday revealed that the Police Lab has been added to this list.

However, testing is no longer available at Tree Top Hospital which was charging MVR 2,000 for a test. T

The remaining hospitals being utilized for PCR testing of travellers are; Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), ADK Hospital, Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital, and Addu Equatorial Hospital.

ADK Hospital charges MVR 1,500 per test while the remaining hospitals charge MVR 1,534.

Samples must be provided 48 hours prior to departure and that a copy of travel itinerary and other required items must be provided.

While countries have begun lifting lockdowns implemented following the global pandemic, some require visitors to provide PCR test reports.

Maldives closed its borders on March 27 following the Covid-19 pandemic, however, international travel resumed on July 15 along with the country's tourism industry.

Some tourists have tested positive for Covid-19 since arriving in the island nation.