Uganda's Ministry of Health on Thursday said inbound travelers to the east African country now do not need to spend more hours at the airport waiting for their COVID-19 test results.

Henry Mwebesa, director-general of Health Services, said in a statement issued here that inbound travelers will have their samples taken, then leave for their destination where they will isolate as they wait for the results.

Mwebesa said results will be sent to them via email or phone.

The new measure comes into effect on Nov. 5, according to the statement.

Previously, inbound travelers had to wait for several hours at the Entebbe International Airport, the principal international airport of Uganda, until they got their results. Those who test positive for COVID-19 are taken to hospital.