UAE: Covid-19 PCR test every week for unvaccinated students above 12

The latest protocol will be implemented after a grace period of 30 days from the date of first school day.

Vaccinated students from 12 years of age; and those not vaccinated under the age of 12 must have a PCR test every month. The UAE authorities announced a PCR test and Covid19 vaccination protocol for high school and college students. 

The protocol is implemented after a 30-day grace period. According to Dr. Farida Al Hosani, the UAE's official health sector spokesperson, all vaccinated and unvaccinated students should perform a PCR test every two weeks during the 30-day grace period. 

Parent's are required to present the proof of vaccination for children in the AlHosn app, Dr Farida  said. The results of the PCR tests and vaccination certificates must be printed out and brought to school. 

Distance learning will continue to be an option for vaccinated and unvaccinated students, she added. 

"The protocol will be updated based on the situation in the country. Health officials are working to add more age groups to those who need to be vaccinated” she added. The official urged parents to have their children get covid-19 vaccination.

In the United Arab Emirates, Sinopharm vaccines can be given to children aged three and over; Students who are not medically entitled to receive the vaccine must obtain a waiver and commit to regular PCR tests. 

86% of the teaching staff vaccinated 

Dr. Farida announced that 86% of the country's teaching staff are vaccinated against Covid19. Around 84% of administrative and technical staff are vaccinated.

Students and employees must sign a health declaration

All students and teachers will sign a promise that they have not become infected with Covid19 or have come into contact with a patient. 

School managements are required to take steps to prevent the crowding on campus, mainly at entry and exit points; and during breaks.

A social distance of one meter is mandatory, with stickers on the floor to guide students. Signs promoting social distancing and hand hygiene should be posted throughout campus.

Students should wear masks and avoid shaking hands and hugs. 

Muslim students must bring their own mats to pray in mosques in schools. They should wear their masks during prayer. Prayer rooms are cleaned with disinfectants after each use. 

It is not immediately clear how the new protocol will affect back to school decisions previously announced by education authorities in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

Abu Dhabi schools

Sharjah Education Authority says students do not need to be vaccinated against Covid19; Those pupil aged 12 years and older must present a negative PCR test result for Covid19 at the beginning of the academic semester from September 2021.

• Previous Post
• Next Post