COVID-19 TRAVELLING GUIDE

Covid-19 testing jargon buster

With so many different requirements and test providers to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. So we’ve sorted out the antigens from the antibodies to help you book the right test with one of our trusted partners.

There are three main testing methods that look for different elements of the virus. Generally, the longer it takes to process the test results, the more accurate it is

Accurate tests (PCR, LAMP)

The most accurate method is to look for molecular or genetic signs of the coronavirus.

This type of test is often called PCR (polymerase chain reaction) or LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplification)

LAMP tests are typically conducted onsite and results can be returned within a couple of hours.

PCR tests can take up to 48 hours as they must be processed in a lab, but offer very reliable results and are the most common test required for international travel.

Rapid tests (Antigen, Lateral flow)

As the name suggests, rapid tests don’t require a lab for processing and offer the fastest results. This method looks for proteins from the virus rather than molecular or genetic indicators.

Rapid tests are often called Antigen or Lateral Flow tests and provide results in under 30 minutes.

This method is less accurate and should only be used as a guide – A positive result should be followed by a PCR test for confirmation.

Immunity tests (Antibody)

This method checks if you have immunity against Covid-19 but can’t tell you if you currently have the virus.

This method is often called an Antibody test because it looks for antibodies in your blood from a vaccine or having previously fought off the Covid-19 infection.

While test results can be turned around very quickly, antibody testing is not typically used to screen people before travelling to another country.

*’Fully vaccinated’ means you have received two doses of the Moderna, AstraZeneca or Pfizer vaccine, or one dose of the Janssen vaccine, at least two weeks before travelling and can show evidence.

Important Information for Travelers

COVID-19 Tests: Travelers must take a PCR Test within a maximum of 72 hours prior to the time of departure from a green classified country or region and bring the test results with them to the touring country. 

2nd Test: Travelers will take a Second PCR test at the on Ben Gurion International Airport and will wait in a designated area at the airport until test results are available. – This protocol is still to be advised.

Outcome: If the test result is negative and the passenger has not been in contact with an individual who has tested positive inside the aircraft,  the passenger will be directed to passport control and will be free to enter the country

Hotline Center: The Ministry of Tourism has opened a special hotline center available 24/7 to provide travelers with directions and vital information while they are in the country. The contact information will be provided to you prior to your arrival. 

Hygienic Corner: A Special Hygienic corner on each bus – Each bus will contain Alcohol Gel (Sanitizer), face masks and disposable gloves.  

What will be done by Hepzibah Tours to ensure your safety while travelling to the Holy Land?

COVID-19 Tests: The Hepzibah tours team members that will interact directly with the delegation with be subject to a COVID-19 test which will be done within 72 hours prior to arrival

Summer: The Vehicle that will pick you up on arrival and be with you the tour will be disinfected , including its trunk, all in accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Health of the Host Nation.

Masks: All Team Members interacting with the delegation will be wearing face masks at all times. 

Support Bubble: All Team Members will remain with the delegation at all times during the journey including accommodation at the hotels.

Hygienic Corner: A Special Hygienic corner on each bus – Each bus will contain Alcohol Gel (Sanitizer), face masks and disposable gloves.  

Further Information or Enquiries

COVID-19 Tests: Should you have any further enquiries on questions on our COVID-19 Travel guide, please contact us on +44 7940 169648 on you can send an email to bookings@hepzibahtours.com.

About Israel

Slightly larger than Massachusetts, lies at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea. It is bordered by Egypt on the west, Syria and Jordan on the east, and Lebanon on the north. Its maritime plain is extremely fertile.

The southern Negev region, which comprises almost half the total area, is largely a desert. The Jordan, the only important river, flows from the north through Lake Hule (Waters of Merom) and Lake Kinneret (also called Sea of Galilee or Sea of Tiberias), finally entering the Dead Sea 1,349 ft (411 m) below sea level—the world’s lowest land elevation. Israel is a land and a people. The history of the Jewish people, and its roots in the Land of Israel, spans some 35 centuries. With the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, Jewish independence, lost almost 2,000 years earlier, was renewed.

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