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UAE lifeline for Hepatitis, tuberculosis job aspirants

As per the details published on the website, testing for Hepatitis B and C, highly infectious diseases of the liver and tuberculosis, are no longer part of the medical fitness testing rules that have been compulsory before obtaining a work permit or residency in the country until now.

However, people working as food handlers, maids, restaurant workers, nannies and educators/teachers are still required to undergo testing for Hepatitis and HIV as well as have a chest X-ray done. All other categories, including dependants such as housewives and parents, are only required to undertake the HIV test, both for new visas and renewals. Those testing positive for HIV will not be allowed to take up residency in the country.

A health ministry official had told Khaleej Times earlier that the new law was approved but did not give details. The changes have been approved but I cannot say what exactly unless we receive the approved copy of the law,” said Dr Mahmoud Fikri, CEO of Health Policies at the ministry.

Medical fitness centre representatives have said they have not been given any instructions regarding the changes. “We we heard changes are coming but until now we have not been given any go ahead,” said an employee requesting anonymity.

Residents going for medical testing before visa renewals have said the delay in the implementation of the law is affecting the status of their residency. A new resident of the country hopes the changed law will allow him to reunite with his family. “My wife tested positive for Hepatitis B and was not given a residency permit,” he said on the condition of anonymity.

“With implementation of this law, I hope to reunite with my family,” he said.

Likewise, a number of residents who have already landed jobs in the UAE have said they are eagerly awaiting changes in the law. “I have been given a paper that says I am medically unfit because I have Hepatitis though I have got an office job recently. I am very worried since I only have a few days left for my visit visa to expire,” said Umar S. “I may lose my job.”

Others hoped to be able to enter the country after being deported for either of the diseases. “During medical screening for my visa renewal, I was found to have TB of initial stage,” said S. Kumar.

“After being given 15 days treatment I was deported earlier this year. Will the changed rule mean I can come back?” he questioned.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE