Rt Pcr Test For Usa Travel From India
As the world tries to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, several countries have implemented strict travel restrictions to prevent the spread of the virus. The United States is one of those countries that have imposed strict regulations on travelers from other countries, including India.
Currently, travelers from India must complete a 14-day quarantine upon arrival in the US. However, recently the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated their guidelines that allow fully vaccinated individuals to skip the quarantine process. This update brings a sigh of relief for travelers, but there is a catch - travelers will need to provide negative COVID-19 test results before boarding their flight to the US.
What is the RT-PCR test?
The Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test is a gold standard for COVID-19 testing. It uses a swab to collect a sample from the back of the throat or nose. The collected sample is then analyzed in a lab to determine the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The test is highly accurate and can detect even small amounts of the virus in the sample.
To enter the US from India, travelers must get a viral test within three days before their flight. The test must be a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), which includes RT-PCR tests. Travelers must provide written documentation of their test result to the airline or provide documentation of recovery from COVID-19.
Where can you get an RT-PCR test?
Several private laboratories and hospitals across India offer RT-PCR tests. Some cities have testing centers dedicated to COVID-19 testing. You can visit the website of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to find the list of approved laboratories for COVID-19 testing. The ICMR has approved several private and government labs for testing, including Thyrocare, Metropolis, Max Hospitals, and others.
How to book an RT-PCR test in India?
You can book an appointment for an RT-PCR test online or on the phone. Private labs and hospital websites offer online booking for the COVID-19 test. You can also contact the lab or hospital on their customer care number to book the test. The cost of the test varies between labs and locations. However, the average cost of the test is between Rs 500 to Rs 1500.
How long does it take to get the RT-PCR test results?
The turnaround time for RT-PCR test results varies between labs. However, most labs offer test results within 24 to 48 hours of the sample collection. Some labs also offer express tests with results available within a few hours.
What if your RT-PCR test result is positive?
If your RT-PCR test result is positive, you must follow the guidelines issued by the Indian government. You will need to isolate yourself and follow the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Contact tracing will be initiated, and you will need to provide details of your recent travel and close contacts to health officials.
For travel to the US, you cannot travel if you test positive for COVID-19. You will need to reschedule your travel plans and complete the mandatory quarantine period before booking your flight again.
Conclusion
Getting the RT-PCR test is a crucial step for travelers from India who wish to travel to the US. The test is a mandatory requirement to board the flight and skip the quarantine period. The RT-PCR test is available in several labs and hospitals across India, and with proper planning and precautions, travelers can safely fly to the US.
