Institutional Quarantine: As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact global travel, the concept of institutional quarantine has become an important term that every traveler to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must understand. Institutional quarantine is a fundamental preventative measure to ensure the health and safety of travelers and the community. Arrivals from abroad are isolated in designated areas under medical supervision. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of institutional quarantine, its importance, the procedures followed, and how to deal with it in Saudi Arabia.
Institutional quarantine is a mandatory period of isolation imposed on travelers arriving from abroad at approved locations, such as hotels or health centers, to monitor their health and ensure they are not infected with the coronavirus or any other infectious disease.
Institutional quarantine differs from home quarantine in that it is conducted under direct medical supervision and regular follow-up by the relevant health authorities to ensure all preventive measures are implemented.
Institutional quarantine is an effective tool in controlling the spread of infectious diseases and is of great importance in:
Protecting the community from the transmission of infection.
Enabling health authorities to monitor cases and provide immediate medical care.
Providing a safe environment for travelers and citizens alike.
Supporting government efforts to combat epidemics and maintain public health.
Institutional Quarantine Procedures in Saudi Arabia
Institutional quarantine procedures include several key steps that travelers must adhere to:
Residence in approved locations
Hotels or official health centers are designated as quarantine locations. These locations provide a suitable environment with necessary facilities and medical services.
Periodic Medical Examination
During the quarantine period, travelers undergo frequent medical examinations, including temperature checks, PCR tests to detect the virus, and other required tests.
Adherence to Health Procedures
Travelers must adhere to wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and not leaving quarantine before the specified period ends or the test results are negative.
Quarantine Duration
The duration of institutional quarantine varies according to government procedures, and often ranges from 5 to 14 days, depending on the destination and current health conditions.
Costs and Responsibilities Related to Institutional Quarantine
In many cases, the Saudi government bears the cost of institutional quarantine for citizens and residents. Foreign travelers or those arriving from certain countries may sometimes bear the cost of quarantine, according to official instructions.
Travelers should confirm booking details and costs before traveling, whether through airlines or official quarantine centers.
How to Book Institutional Quarantine in Saudi Arabia
Institutional quarantine is usually booked through:
Official airline websites, such as Saudi Airlines, which offer comprehensive packages including accommodation, transportation, and medical tests.
Authorized quarantine centers that provide online booking and payment services.
Electronic government platforms that allow travelers to register their information and book institutional quarantine.
Advice for Travelers During Institutional Quarantine
Prepare yourself mentally for the isolation period and ensure you maintain contact with your family and friends.
Take advantage of services provided during quarantine, such as the internet and healthy meals.
Strictly follow health authorities' instructions to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
Use the time to read books or watch movies to stay mentally active.
The Difference Between Institutional Quarantine and Home Quarantine
Institutional Quarantine
Home Quarantine
Location
Accredited hotels or healthcare centers
Home
Supervision
Direct medical supervision
Self-monitoring or remote monitoring
Duration
Usually 5-14 days
May vary depending on the case
Tests
Periodical and specific
As needed
How does institutional quarantine contribute to combating the pandemic?
Institutional quarantine helps:
Reducing community transmission.
Detecting infected cases early and preventing the spread of the virus.
Reducing pressure on healthcare facilities by reducing the number of overlapping infections.
Challenges Facing Institutional Quarantine
Feelings of loneliness and psychological isolation among travelers.
Difficulty adapting to the quarantine environment.
Financial costs for some travelers.
The need to provide psychological and social support services during the quarantine period.
Conclusion
Institutional quarantine is an integral part of the preventive measures adopted by Saudi Arabia to preserve the health and safety of all in light of global health challenges. By adhering to the procedures, pre-booking, and cooperating with the relevant authorities, travelers can safely and easily pass the institutional quarantine period. Ultimately, institutional quarantine contributes to building a healthier and safer society.
Note:
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