Drive-through PCR testing for the coronavirus (COVID-19) is now available at Ain Shams University, at a cost of EGP 2,000. The Rapid IgM-IgG Ab test will cost EGP450.
Ain Shams University has announced that the service will be provided in cooperation with Speed Medical Company (SPMD), the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Supreme Council of Universities Hospitals.
Those wishing to undertake the PCR test will be able to do so at the site from 16 June, between 10:00 and 18:30.
Tamer Wagih, Chairperson of SPMD, said the results of rapid tests will be available within two minutes of taking the test, while PCR test results will appear after 24 hours.
People do not have to head for a hospital for coronavirus testing, and will have their tests taken whilst they remain in their vehicles, Wagih said in televised remarks to the Sada El Balad TV station late on Sunday.
Wagih said that the centres “are ready to cover all areas of Egypt within ten days through 50 sites” if the government wishes to expand the service. For now, however, the only drive-through testing site will be at the Ain Shams field hospital, he added. The government has stated that other testing sites will be set up at Cairo University, Future University and 6th of October University.
Furthermore, Wagih said that the drive-through testing site provides PCR and rapid tests equipment which have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Should people find they have the coronavirus, they will either be directed to a hospital or will be asked to self-isolate depending on their health condition, and according to Ministry of Health treatment protocols for the virus, Wagih said.
The service, which is already available in other countries, allows people to have samples and swabs taken while inside their vehicles without having to head to laboratories or hospitals.
To access COVID-19 testing at drive-through testing, people have to book through a mobile application. They will then be able to head to the testing site and have their samples taken as they remain in their cars. Results will appear on the mobile application or via WhatsApp messages.
