Hospitals across Abu Dhabi have been ordered not to charge for H1N1 influenza testing and diagnosis by the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi (Haad).

The Haad issued the notice to health centres across the region instructing them to conduct H1N1 tests free of cost, but it is not clear when the directive will come into effect, Gulf News reports.

Any fee collected for the tests and diagnosis would be considered a violation of the health regulations in the emirate, the circular said.