Health authorities in Antigua and Barbuda are strengthening surveillance and screening measures at the country’s ports of entry amid growing international concerns over several infectious disease outbreaks worldwide.
The measures were presented by Health Minister Michael Joseph, who informed Cabinet that the Ministry of Health has been closely monitoring global developments involving outbreaks of diseases including Hantavirus, Ebola and Malaria in various parts of the world.
Cabinet was advised that the Ministry has already begun upgrading the operations of the Port Health Unit to facilitate enhanced surveillance and monitoring protocols at the nation’s ports of entry.
Among the new measures to be implemented are expanded health screening procedures, including temperature checks and strengthened traveler monitoring systems aimed at identifying potential public health risks before entry into Antigua and Barbuda.
Incoming travelers will also be required to disclose details of their travel history over the previous 21 days. Health authorities said the information will assist officials in determining whether individuals may have traveled through countries experiencing outbreaks of the identified diseases and allow for the implementation of appropriate precautionary measures where necessary.
The Minister further reported that preparatory work is underway to ready the Infectious Disease Centre as a precautionary measure to ensure the country remains capable of responding swiftly should any health emergency arise.
Cabinet fully endorsed the measures outlined by the Ministry and reiterated the Government’s commitment to safeguarding national public health through proactive planning and preparedness initiatives.
Officials also confirmed that the Ministry of Health plans to host a public press briefing to provide additional information on the measures being introduced and to offer guidance to citizens, residents and travelers.
Cabinet commended frontline healthcare workers and public health officials for their continued vigilance amid growing international public health concerns.
