President Donald Ramotar yesterday met diplomats, security, aviation, medical and private sector officials, umbrella religious groups, non-governmental organisations and trade union bodies to discuss Guyana’s preparedness for any possible Ebola outbreak.
The Government Information Agency said that despite invitations, representatives of the parliamentary opposition political parties failed to attend the meeting at the Presidential Complex which attracted over 100 stakeholders.
GINA said that the meeting was the latest aimed at informing officials of developments, and possible challenges that may arise within sectors in dealing with any possible cases. Stakeholders were also told about various aspects of the disease and measures being taken locally by Health Minister Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Shamdeo Persaud. GINA said that these included the facilities that were prepared, and being prepared for the quarantining of suspected victims of Ebola, at official ports of entry, such as the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri and the Ogle Airport.
GINA said that the Health Ministry has trained more than 1,600 persons to deal with any suspected cases of the disease. Further, health care facilities are also being prepared to handle suspected cases, he added along with the procurement of protective gear and medical supplies. In cases of the latter, international support from agencies such the Pan American Health Organisation and the World Health Organisation is expected.
