COVID-19 PCR tests for UAE schoolchildren: Frequency of testing, how to make the process easier

Abu Dhabi: A PCR test is known to be the most effective method to screen for COVID-19. While adult residents in the UAE have been undergoing regular screenings since the start of the pandemic, more and more children are now taking the test.

The increased PCR testing among children is a result of national regulations, which call for children physically attending school to be tested regularly based on their age and vaccination status. The testing is part of a comprehensive plan announced by the National Crisis, Emergency and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) to ensure a safe return to school.

In Abu Dhabi, all schools now offer free on-campus testing for students. Vaccinated school-going children in other emirates can also get free PCR tests every month. This means that students will often undergo the PCR tests in the absence of their parents.

To assist with these screenings, here is a quick guide on what you can do to make the process easier:

What is the PCR testing requirement for students?

The requirement applies to all students physically attending classes in public, private and charter schools in the UAE, as well as to students enrolled in universities, nurseries, daycare centres, training institutes, and universities.

Students enrolled in private schools in Dubai, and students aged less than 12 years in Sharjah’s private schools, do not need to undergo the tests at the moment.

In addition, remote learning is provided as an option for children less than 12 in many schools, for students of determination, and for many university students. These students would therefore not have to undergo regular PCR tests.

Taking a nasal PCR easier

Although the nasal swab test is available for children of all ages, it can feel slightly intrusive for younger takers. Some basic measures could help make the process easier.

What to do before a saliva test

For children less than 12 years, saliva tests are an option. So be sure to ask your child’s school about this before a scheduled PCR.

Dr Sally Mahmoud, lab director and clinical pathologist at Biogenix Labs – the Abu Dhabi-based facility that was the first to offer saliva PCRs to children in the UAE – explained what is required for saliva-based testing.

Free testing

In case you would like to take your child for the PCR testing yourself, all private and public testing centres in Abu Dhabi offer free testing for schoolchildren, with a number of facilities – including drive-through centres – also providing a saliva testing option.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention has also designated centres in other emirates where students can take the tests.

In addition, facilities in Dubai under the Dubai Health Authority are offering free PCR tests to Emirati students enrolled in public schools.