Unmindful of the risk, many evade test
Even as the COVID-19 test is getting overwhelming response from both citizens and expatriates, there are many people, who are unwilling to approach the centres.
The reason, as the volunteers involved in the campaign point out, is “many of them have not realised the perils involved in the pandemic”.
Other people, despite the government announcement that “the test is free and resident card is not required for the purpose”, are still afraid of approaching the testing centres because “they do not possess valid documents to stay in the country”.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Health, all people will be tested freely even if they do not have any identity cards with them. They need to give only name and basic information about them with a credible mobile number to inform results and follow- up.
“All those who have valid civil ID should provide it for ease of documentation and follow-up of symptoms. Not having ID card will not invite any action from authorities. After completion of medical check all people will be given a valid document for follow-up in health institutions and as reference for result”, the statement said.
The people with
COVID-19 symptoms who are unwilling to face screening, will not only hinder the campaign to control the contagion but also risk themselves and others too, according to medical experts.
They may not be potential carriers of the dreaded virus, but some of them have symptoms including sniffing, sneezing and even coughing.
Firoz (he did not reveal the full name) was spotted with same symptoms at the gate of a supermarket in Ruwi where a large number of people wander around.
On being asked, he said, “I do not want to go to the testing centre as it is likely that I may be caught for not having proper documents. I am taking some tablets bought from a pharmacy”.
Firoz is one among many expats who skip the test despite having symptoms similar to that of the COVID-19 virus.
Kamaruddin arrived in the Sultanate just a year ago on the socalled non-existing ‘free visa’ and has been working with a contractor on daily wages. Some others who evade tests are said to be those who have absconded from their sponsors.
“Life is becoming difficult for me. We are six people staying in one room. Others do not have even proper documents so that we can go to the testing centres. Now the situation is that we are left without any money”, he said.