The Ministry of Health continues to conduct multiple activities associated with the global threat of Ebola – The Ministry of Health is pleased to share an update on several activities carried out within the past week. Two isolation facilities have been stationed at the Phillip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) compound and the precise specifications of these facilities are currently being reviewed.
Revisions have also been conducted on surveillance activities at the airport for further strengthening. Additionally, several activities are being conducted including the activation of Point of Entry Screening with Public Health Inspectors at the International Airport, meetings between the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and the Public Health Inspectorate on the adoption of updated screening protocols for cruise ship passengers, and meetings with relevant stakeholders on a draft plan of action for Ebola called by the Ministry of Health through the office of the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO).
The NEMO meeting was headed by the Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Peter Allen and the Director of Health Services, Dr. Michael Pitts. The primary focus of that meeting was to sensitize stakeholders to issues related to the Ebola virus and to discuss the implementation of a coordinated effort to contain and manage the disease if it enters Belize.
The Ministry has also completed the development of a “Health Alert” notice card, a passenger location card, a fact sheet on Ebola, and an Ebola information flyer for passengers on international flights. These materials are being printed for wide distribution at the PGIA.
The Ministry has established a hotline for information (629-5604) and urges the public to visit the Ministry of Health website at www.health.gov.bz for more information on Ebola and other health related issues.
