KUWAIT: Minister of Health Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi announced a new ministerial decree on Thursday barring expatriates with two consecutive “indeterminate” HIV test results from entering the country. The decision aims to strengthen health screening protocols and protect public health by ensuring stricter oversight of incoming residents.

The decree specifically targets new expatriates and those applying for residency, stipulating that individuals who receive two “indeterminate” results from HIV antibody tests will be deemed medically unfit. As a result, they will be placed on a list prohibiting their entry into Kuwait. The ministry highlighted that this measure is part of a broader initiative to enhance the regulatory framework for medical examinations of expatriates, ensuring that potential health risks are identified and mitigated before individuals integrate into society.

The health ministry launched on Thursday its national strategy to combat AIDS (2025-2029). The plan aims to eliminate AIDS as a public health issue by strengthening prevention and reducing new infections, improving the quality of healthcare and treatment for those affected, reducing stigma and discrimination associated with AIDS, enhancing community awareness and educating the public and promoting research and studies to develop the national response.