BELMOPAN, Thurs. Jan. 14, 2021– The Minister of Health and Wellness, Hon. Michel Chebat, has signed an updated Statutory Instrument (SI) in order to further regulate the importation of COVID-19 tests and the carrying out of testing. Statutory Instrument No. 2 of 2021 mandates all persons wishing to import COVID-19 tests or any testing equipment, to apply for permission, in writing, to the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

The added clause, section 33A(1), reads,” Every person who desires to import a test that detects the presence or absence of SARS-COV2 or any equipment or supplies in relation to a test that detects the presence or absence of SARS-COV2 shall apply in writing to the Ministry responsible for Health for approval to import that test, equipment or supplies. “

Subsection 2 of 33A mandates all persons wishing to offer testing “to apply to the MOHW”.
“These new amendments were signed into law on Thursday, January 14th. Currently, only PCR and Antigen Rapid tests are approved by the MOHW as viable COVID-19 tests,” the release states. The public “is therefore advised to be aware of anyone making claims to conduct any other type of testing for COVID-19.”

A toll-free line, 0-800-MOH-CARE (0-800-664-2273), remains active for persons wishing to get information on approved health facilities and laboratories endorsed by the Ministry to conduct the approved tests.