THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has made COVID-19 test free for those coming from abroad. The RT-PCR testing at airports has been made free, said Health Minister K K Shailaja. 'Those coming from abroad cannot avoid the test. Strong checking should be carried at airports as there is a possibility of a second wave of Covid. Can continue in quarantine at home. The results of the test will be made available soon, she said.

RT-PCR testing started in airports in Kerala based on the central directive. There was also opposition on the decision of testing again after undergoing it abroad. It is in this context the government has taken a new decision. The health minister also asked the people to be extra vigilant to prevent the increase in Covid in the state.

Mobile RT-PCR testing labs in the state will start functioning from tomorrow. The charge is only Rs 448. The government has also decided to revoke the licenses of laboratories that do not provide test results within 24 hours.