SCHIPHOL--The Dutch aviation company KLM now also offers so-called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) coronavirus tests which are mandatory for foreign visitors to a number of countries in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Curaçao government previously also mentioned the introduction of such tests during one of its press conferences. This test is to become mandatory for foreign visitors to the island.
During the PCR test a sample will be taken from the nose and throat with a cotton swab. The test result will be known in 24 to 48 hours, but longer during weekends, and with a negative result a tourist can travel to countries that require such a test.
KLM Health Services provides COVID-19 PCR tests for passengers who will need to provide a certificate confirming that they have tested negative for COVID-19. The tests will be provided for travellers who are not covered by the Dutch testing policy. The KLM test costs 179 euros.
The restrictions and bans that have been placed on airlines during the coronavirus pandemic have resulted in a significantly reduced number of flights, making it more difficult for passengers to return to their home countries. A number of countries have imposed requirements on passengers from the Netherlands, because the country is considered a high risk for COVID-19.
A number of countries require that travellers provide proof that they have recently tested negative for COVID-19 before they will be allowed to enter their destination. KLM will test those people for COVID-19, the airline stated on its website. Prospective travellers can also have themselves tested for free at the Dutch Health Department GGD in the Netherlands.
KLM will only test people who are not covered by the Dutch testing policy and who do not have any health problems or COVID-19 symptoms. Persons who have or are developing any complaints such as fever, coughs, sore throat or rhinitis will not be tested and will be directed to the GGD.
The purpose of a PCR test is to detect the presence of genetic material from the COVID-19 virus in the nasal or oral cavity. The test results will be made available in the form of a certificate in the English language which will be sent by e-mail.
KLM said the test results do not provide any guarantee. It may be that the tested person is still in the incubation period and the virus cannot be detected yet, or he or she may become infected during the period between the test and the trip. “The test does not provide any proof or guarantee of validity,” KLM stated on its website.
Everyone is welcome for testing at KLM Health Services regardless of which airline company or mode of transport they are using. This also applies to other services such as travel advice, vaccinations or medical examinations.
Information about the COVID-19 requirements for international travel are available at the website of International Air Transport Association (IATA)
www.iatatravelcentre.com/international-travel-document-news/1580226297.htm.
