The National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) said that it had authorised the sale of the coronavirus (COVID-19) rapid antigen tests at Bahraini pharmacies, at BD 4, based on the approval of the National Medical Taskforce for Combating Coronavirus.
Recently, the NHRA authorised the sale of single tests, provided that the pharmacist prepares the test for the patient and gives it to them for use within 48 hours. As for the purchase of the COVID-19 Rapid Test Kit (Box of 25), the patient can use the liquid inside the kit for a longer period.
Earlier this week, the Ministry of Health announced the availability of the coronavirus (COVID-19) rapid antigen tests in pharmacies across the Kingdom of Bahrain, with a ceiling price of BHD 4.
The coronavirus (COVID-19) Rapid Test Device is a fast and effective test that is used by taking nasal swab samples and providing results within (15) minutes
The NHRA emphasised that the rapid antigen tests are not a replacement for the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test, which remains the approved diagnostic tool used in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
It also stressed that the rapid antigen tests are not intended for use by contacts of positive cases.
The NHRA indicated that if the test shows a positive result, the test user is obligated to isolate themselves immediately, and call 444 to report the result and follow all the instructions provided.
The initiative to provide the fast-testing technique accessible by all reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring the availability of advanced diagnostic healthcare and treatment to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19, in line with global best practices.