The onset of COVID-19 had a substantial impact on the world and shook the framework of travel. To ensure a smoother transition back into the arena of wanderlust, the covid test for travel becomes crucial.
In Australia, the first case of COVID-19 was discovered in January 2020. According to a recent survey, around 3,800,800 cases have been reported by March 2022, with over 5700 deaths. The case counter is ever rolling and as country borders are re-opening, read further to know more about COVID testing.
What Are the Accepted COVID-19 Test Results?
The reports of your COVID-19 test can be printed or electronic and must adhere to specific mandatory requisites:
- Name and birth date of the passenger
- The result should either read ‘negative’ or ‘not detected.’
- The make and brand of the test should be mentioned (for RAT tests)
- The method of the test conducted should be specified (e.g., NAA, RAT etc.)
- The date of specimen collection (including time for RAT)
- Signature of authorised personnel ensuring test was collected and carried out under proper supervision.
If you have opted for a RAT test, it must be conducted by or under the supervision of someone who isn’t the passenger.
Whereas the laboratory will provide you with your NAA test result.
What Are the Current Covid Test for Travel Requirements for International Passengers?
All international visitors must present a valid negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or a rapid antigen test).
PCR testing must be undertaken 72 hours ahead of the flight’s departure, while rapid antigen tests must be performed within 24 hours.
Eligible passengers are further instructed to submit a ‘Digital Passenger Declaration’ (which has replaced the previously required ‘Australia Travel Declaration’).
Unvaccinated individuals who meet the requirements for a travel exemption will be required to quarantine.
What Types Of COVID-19 Testing Are Out There?
COVID-19 testing can be classified into two: current infection and past infection.
For Past Infections:
Antibody testing can detect previous infections, and the antibodies found in the blood can indicate current or recent COVID-19 infection. This test is imprecise for establishing whether a person is currently infected. The test is more suitable for tracking and analysis of global health.
For Current Infections
This can be detected by diagnostic tests, which are further bifurcated into two types, molecular and antigen.
Molecular tests include RT-PCR, TMA and LAMP, which are NAAT tests and detect SARS-Cov-2 genetic material.
Antigen tests help detect viral proteins, and their run-through time can be as short as 15 minutes.
Is A Negative Test Enough in Ensuring Traveller Safety?
All kinds of tests pose the possibility of false negatives and positives. These results must be regarded with a pinch of salt after examining current health conditions, exposure and symptoms.
In Addition To COVID-19 Testing, What Other Variables Should Be Taken into Account Before Travelling?
Standard safety protocols must be followed rigorously and should be regarded as the pillars of precaution.
Travellers must also look into the availability of healthcare and the general policies, procedures and resources in destination countries and methods of flying back (if deemed necessary).
Summing It Up
Safety measures like the covid test for travel are vital for individual healthcare and global welfare. COVID-19 can be transmitted as a chain reaction, and lax precautionary measures only act as catalysts. Quench your wanderlust, but don’t forget your shield and armour of a negative test, social distancing and a mask!
