Coronavirus: Two new centres in Fujairah to offer free tests

Nearly 6,000 people are tested at the Ghantoot laser centre every day. Antonie Robertson / The National

Medics at the Ghantoot testing centre on the border between Dubai and Abu Dhabi use a laser technique to scan a blood sample for signs of surging red blood cells, which is an early sign the body is fighting off a virus. Antonie Robertson / The National

A medic testing a commuter for Covid-19. Antonie Robertson / The National

The results of the Diffractive Phase Interferometry test, or DPI, which detects viral presence in the blood, including Covid-19, are received in minutes via a text message. Antonie Robertson / The National

The test costs Dh50 and is very quick compared with the PCR test that can take time to get a result. Antonie Robertson / The National

The facility was set up to allow commuters who require a negative Covid-19 test to enter Abu Dhabi. Those with negative results can continue their journey. Antonie Robertson / The National

The Ministry of Health and Prevention has opened two new centres in Fujairah to offer free coronavirus tests.

The new facilities are in Masafi and Al Bidyah areas of the emirate.

On July 21, Sheikh Hamad bin Mohamed Al Sharqi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, instructed health officials to test citizens and residents in the emirate for free.

The free testing centres in the emirate aim to encourage people to visit the clinics to get tested.

The mass testing programme is part of the country’s early detection strategy, aimed at identifying, isolating and treating Covid-19 patients to avoid further spread of the virus.

Last month, seven health centres, four hospitals, and mobile medical facilities were allocated to provide free coronavirus tests to citizens and residents of Ras al Khaimah.