Bahrain ends precautionary quarantine for contacts of active COVID-19 cases

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Starting Sunday, people who are contacts of active COVID-19 cases, including those who do not have a “Green Shield” on their BeAware app, are no longer required to stay in quarantine, said the National Medical Taskforce for Combating the COVID-19 pandemic yesterday.

Taskforce officials also said they are limiting the requirement of taking the COVID-19 test to those having symptoms, in a move further easing Coronavirus-related protocols.

Following the announcement, the Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs announced cancelling PCR tests and quarantines for all passengers arriving at the Bahrain International Airport to streamline the process of travel for tourists.

These new entry procedures and other updates will come into effect on Sunday.

Explaining the newly updated procedures, Taskforce officials said people should take COVID-19 tests only if they have symptoms.

First rapid test

Meaning, a person having COVID-19 symptoms should first conduct a rapid COVID-19 test.

If the results are positive, that person should go directly to one of the drive-through testing centres for taking a PCR test.

Those who turned positive could also reach a private hospital or use BeAware app or call 444 to book an appointment for taking a COVID-19 PCR test.

Taskforce statement also clarified that the decision to cancel quarantine for existing contacts follows the previous decision to drop quarantine for those holding a Green Shield on the ‘BeAware’ app.

The new decision, the Taskforce said, is in line with national indicators showing the effectiveness of vaccination and booster dose in raising a person’s immunity.

The Taskforce further called on all to adhere strictly to preventive measures and other decisions to continue battling the COVID-19 pandemic effectively and preserve the health and safety of all.