UAE Covid vaccine takers don't need to take PCR tests every 2 weeks

All federal government employees in UAE will be required to perform a PCR test every 14 days at the employee's own expense, according to authorities.

The Federal Authority for Governmental Human Resources on Tuesday announced new Covid-19 measures that will be implemented for employees of federal ministries and employees, starting January 17.

Employees who have received the Covid-19 vaccine will be exempted from the rule, according to the circular distributed to all federal government departments and ministries.

Also read: Free Covid vaccine in UAE: Emirate-wise list of centres to get jab

Any employees with medically proven health conditions that prevent them from taking the Covid vaccine will need to undergo a PCR test every 14 days. However, this will be undertaken for them by the federal government entity.

The new measures are part of the UAE government efforts in addressing the pandemic, limiting its spread and repercussions, and protecting the health of employees by promoting a safe working environment.

The circular has urged all federal authorities to implement several procedures, related to their employees and employees of outsourcing and public services companies, as well as employees of advisory services and expertise firms that deal with them.

This is to protect them and their families from contracting the Covid-19 virus.

The circular also included employees of consulting firms, expert houses and the like, who are dealing directly with those of the federal authorities by visiting their premises for workshops, attending meetings and other interactions or tasks required by their contracts.

Also read: UAE Covid-19 vaccine campaign: Abu Dhabi urges residents to take free jab, protect nation

The federal government entities must ensure that representatives or employees of these companies have valid PCR test results that are no more than three days old, with the exception of employees who have received the Covid-19 vaccine.

The circular stated that, in joint cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), the Covid-19 vaccine was provided free of charge in all health centres of the ministry across the emirates, as well as health centres of the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi (DoH), in addition to a number of private hospitals in the country.

In the Circular No. 2 of 2021, the Federal Authority for Governmental Human Resources urged all federal ministries and agencies to encourage and empower their employees and workers to take the Covid-19 vaccine, with priority given to those suffering from chronic disease and senior citizens.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com

Ismail Sebugwaawo

A professional journalist originating from Kampala, Uganda, Ismail is a happy father with strong attachment to family and great values for humanity. He has practiced journalism in UAE for the past 13 years, covering the country's parliament (FNC) and crimes, including Abu Dhabi Police, public prosecution and courts. He also reports about important issues in education, public health and the environment, with a keen interest in human interest stories. When out of reporting duties, he serves the Ugandan community in Abu Dhabi as he wants to see his countrymen happy. Exercising and reading are part of his free time.