Government health agencies worldwide have conducted millions of tests for citizens to develop an early detection system and limit the spread of COVID-19 among society members. Since many screening tools failed to provide effective and fast results, it has become vital to strengthen screening capabilities to receive quicker and more accurate results and curb the spread of the disease. Many governments offer continuous support for private sector initiatives to improve screening capabilities and accelerate the mechanisms of issuing results, in addition to focusing a part of their efforts and attention on generating innovative solutions.

The Dubai Health Authority has developed the latest screening innovations. It recently launched a highly-advanced mobile testing unit for COVID-19 screening in densely populated areas, especially labor camps in the Emirate. This testing unit targets the elderly and individuals unable to visit health centers due to their health conditions. The initiative was implemented in cooperation with NAFFCO and SHIELDme. Units are equipped with external and internal isolation and sterilization systems developed by SHIELDme with the ability to screen 1,000 individuals per day.

This unit is a reflection of the ongoing cooperation and consolidation of efforts between private entities, the public health sector, and the police in containing the spread of the virus. Mobile testing units have many features, including an ID card reading machine and registration system. It can easily move around residential neighborhoods and protect medical staff from infection caused by direct contact with potentially infected individuals, providing them with a greater sense of security while performing their jobs.

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