Where And How To Get A COVID-19 Test Before Departing Belize  

by Larry Waight

Although the COVID-19 pandemic is undoubtedly easing around the world and most countries are lifting their restrictions, you may still find yourself in need of a COVID test. The last thing you want to do while on vacation is worry about whether you have COVID, but if you begin experiencing symptoms it is in the best interest of both you and others around you that you get yourself tested. You may also still be required to have a test before travel. If you need a COVID test in Belize for any reason, the following guide will help you learn where and how to get one.

COVID Test Requirements

PGIA airport belize

The Philip Goldson International Airport is Belize’s one and only international air entry point. Image via Unsplash

 

While many COVID requirements have been lifted for those traveling to and from Belize, some still remain. If you are returning to the United States from Belize, for example, you are required to show a negative test result no more than one day old before boarding your flight. This is a requirement set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and it is current as of May 2022. Whether you know this before your trip or are due to depart and have just found out, you should be aware of how and where to get a COVID test in Belize.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Children under 2 years old are exempt from the U.S. Testing Rule.

There are some key exceptions to the current testing rule. The first is that it only applies to children over two years old, so younger kids are exempt from needing to take a test. If you can provide documentation proving that you have had and recovered from COVID within the last 90 days, you also will not need to get a test.

Know that you are not exempt from the test required to enter the United States if you have been vaccinated against COVID-19. If you are vaccinated, however, you will not need to show proof of a negative COVID test to enter Belize.

Approved COVID-19 Testing Sites in Belize

The Ministry of Health and Wellness in Belize has worked with private health providers to set up COVID testing sites at medical centers throughout Belize, such as the Caye Caulker Health Center, the Belmopan Medical Center, the San Ignacio Hospital, and many others. All major settlements and tourist areas, such as San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, Belize City, Placencia, Hopkins, and San Ignacio, have one or more sites where you can get your test. Sites are also located at Maya Island Air municipal airports, where you can get either PCR or antigen (rapid) tests before flying out to catch your return flight. All providers carry the valid licenses and certifications issued and required by Belize’s Ministry of Health and Wellness.

What To Expect At The Clinic

If you have not needed a COVID test before, the prospect might seem scary or daunting, but there is nothing to fear. Although the tests can be briefly uncomfortable, they are not painful. They are done by doing a quick nasal swab and take only a few minutes to complete, with results coming in as few as 20 minutes. For your convenience, your provider will give you the test result by both print and e-mail as well as the affidavit declaration you will need to present in order to board your flight.

caring hands clinic Belize City tza Maya island air covid test staff

There are two kinds of COVID-19 tests: PCR and antigen (also commonly known as rapid) tests. Both are effective and meet the testing requirement. Tests cost $75 USD for a rapid test and $200 for a PCR test at Caring Hands Clinics. However, keep your eye open for special discounts through social media or Maya Island Air.

What If You Test Positive?

caring hands clinic lodge jaguar reef belize

Get tested on the beach at Caring Hands Clinic’s branch at The Lodge at Jaguar Reef.

A positive test result can be a very unwanted surprise that will derail your plans, but you will nonetheless need to proceed appropriately. The doctor or nurse at the clinic will follow protocols set forth by the Ministry of Health and Wellness to get you safely isolated and provide treatment.

Whether you are preparing to depart Belize or are experiencing COVID symptoms, the Caring Hands Clinic Antigen Test Centers will meet your needs. Caring Hands has partnered with Maya Island Air for the convenience of travelers and issues tests that are both CDC-compliant and FDA-approved. Schedule your return test as soon as possible so you can guarantee your spot and travel with peace of mind.

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