By IANS,
Dubai : All expatriates coming to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to stay for more than six months would have to undergo medical check-up for contagious diseases such as hepatitis B and leprosy, WAM news agency reported Wednesday.
A ministerial decree to this effect was issued by the UAE Health Minister Humaid Mohammed Al Qattami Tuesday.
For Hepatitis B, the decree states that expatriates who come to the UAE for living, studying or working shall undergo the test for the disease in two phases, the first of which would be conducted at the time of first entry into the country.
The procedure for the second phase would be determined on the basis of result of the first phase, it added.
The decree calls for syphilis and pulmonary tuberculosis tests on expatriates at the time of their first entry to the UAE. Those testing positive would be qualified to stay in the country but must undergo necessary medical treatment.
The test for leprosy would be conducted on expatriates at the time of the first entry and renewal of residency. Those testing positive would be deported in accordance with the rules.
The tests would be conducted by the preventive medicine department of the ministry of health, Abu Dhabi Health Authority and Dubai Health Authority.