BioReference Laboratories Announces First COVID-19 Testing Program for Cruise Industry

BioReference Laboratories, Inc., an OPKO Health company (NASDAQ: OPK), today announced a COVID-19 testing program for U.S. based crew and guests who cruise with Royal Caribbean Group, helping provide a safe environment for travelers.

Under the agreement, unvaccinated guests will be required to undergo rapid, point-of-care PCR COVID-19 prior to embarking. These guests will also undergo rapid, COVID-19 point-of-care testing at the end of their voyage, before disembarking. Depending on voyage length, testing may also take place on board, during the cruise. All Royal Caribbean Group crew members will be required to undergo routine laboratory-based PCR tests at regular intervals.

BioReference announced a COVID-19 testing program for U.S. based crew and guests who cruise with Royal Caribbean Group.

"Royal Caribbean Group has worked diligently with us to develop a set of testing protocols in conjunction with other mitigation strategies to provide the safest possible environment for all passengers and crew," said Jon R. Cohen, M.D., Executive Chairman of BioReference Laboratories. "Our first in the nation custom solution for the cruise industry was developed so that each passenger will be tested, and results provided within 40 minutes of their arrival at the port."

About BioReference Laboratories, Inc.

BioReference Laboratories, Inc., is one of the largest full service specialty laboratories in the United States that gives healthcare providers and patients the power to make confident healthcare decisions. With a focus on genetics, oncology, urology and women's health, BioReference offers comprehensive test solutions and unparalleled expertise based on a 40 year legacy of proven science. The company is in-network with the largest health plans in the United States, serves approximately 19 million patients annually, operates a network of 11 laboratory locations, and is backed by a medical staff of more than 300 M.D., D.O., Ph.D., genetic counselors and other professional clinical and scientific personnel. With a national footprint and niche market experience, BioReference provides credible and innovative solutions that meet the needs of employers, governmental agencies, educational systems, hospitals and health systems, correctional institutions, sports leagues, travel and leisure industries, and retail markets. BioReference provides industry-leading custom solutions for COVID-19, including point-of-care testing and large-scale screening programs. 

About OPKO Health, Inc.

OPKO is a multinational biopharmaceutical and diagnostics company that seeks to establish industry-leading positions in large, rapidly growing markets by leveraging its discovery, development, and commercialization expertise and novel and proprietary technologies.