With more countries opening their borders to tourists and visitors, you can now make travel plans for the holiday and business purposes. Although people can now travel, they need to take certain precautionary measures like getting an RT PCR test in London to ensure their safety and avoid quarantine at their travel destination.
Airlines and airports now request travellers to get their PCR swab test before they can board their flight. The testing requirement has helped to eliminate the need for quarantine in most countries. This write-up contains information on the COVID-19 test for travel, so you can get the right information needed to have a successful trip.
Testing requirements
Some countries like Serbia and Austria now need travellers to have a signed certificate by a medical professional to confirm that they do not have an active COVID-19 infection. The IATA has also mandated all travellers to perform the PCR test as this will help boost the number of people travelling and ensure normalcy returns to the aviation industry.
Countries like South Korea allow travellers to either get the test before their departure or on arrival. However, this has led to delays in departure and on arrival. To prevent unnecessary delays at the airport, it may be better to get the test a few days before departure.
What does the COVID-19 PCR test check for?
The COVID-19 PCR test is a standard test that helps detect the presence of an active infection.
How is the COVID-19 swab test performed?
A healthcare provider will take your nasal and back of throat swab sample. The collection of the sample takes only a few seconds, and it is not as uncomfortable as inserting the swab sample in the nose and pushing it down to the rear cavity.
How long does it take to receive the COVID-19 test result?
The turnaround time for COVID-19 test result varies between laboratories, but you may be able to get your result within 24 hours of conducting the test. The laboratory might send your test result via email, or you can visit the clinic to get the result.
How much is the PCR swab test?
The COVID-19 PCR test costs about £175, and this usually covers the cost of your fit-to-fly certificate.
When do you need to get tested?
Different countries have a specific timeframe for travellers to get their COVID-19 test for travel, so if you want to get the test, check the official website of your travel destination for information on the stipulated testing time. You could also contact the airline for information on the required testing time.
How do you get the test?
You can book for your test online or visit an approved testing centre to perform your COVID-19 PCR test for travel.