Following complaints about falsified PCR test results, Egypt’s Ministry of Health and Population has adopted new requirements regarding PCR tests for passengers entering the country through Hurghada International Airport.
Sources at the airport indicated that the tougher requirements came after the airport received a number of complaints about fake results of coronavirus tests carried by tourists coming from countries affected by the virus.
The new measures will be implemented through the airport’s Quarantine Department.
According to the department, the test results must be a print copy written in English and not exceed 72 hours from date and time of testing. Additionally, there must be a stamp and signature from the laboratory doctor in English, as well as a watermark or international barcode.
An official email from the laboratory containing the results and the passenger’s information may be accepted in lieu of a print copy of their results.
The department warned that no handwritten reports will be accepted.
If passengers fail to bring results that meet the aforementioned guidelines, they will be subject to a coronavirus test on arrival and at their expense.
As of September 1, all local and foreign passengers wishing to enter Egypt must present a negative PCR test that was taken within 72 hours of arrival.
Passengers can take PCR tests upon arrival for US$30 at Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, Marsa Alam and Taba airports.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
