Antigua and Barbuda will introduce stronger health screening measures for incoming travellers. Moreover, officials are preparing the Infectious Disease Centre as global health concerns grow.

The Cabinet announced the measures during Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing. Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant shared details during the update.

Merchant said Health Minister Michael Joseph briefed Cabinet on current public health risks. These concerns include Ebola, hantavirus, and malaria outbreaks worldwide.

The announcement follows a recent declaration from the World Health Organization. WHO classified the Ebola outbreak in parts of Central Africa as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

According to WHO, cases linked to the Bundibugyo virus emerged in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. Officials also confirmed deaths connected to the outbreak.

WHO reported eight laboratory-confirmed Ebola cases by May 16. In addition, officials recorded 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected deaths in Congo’s Ituri Province.

Meanwhile, Uganda reported two confirmed Ebola cases in Kampala. One of those cases resulted in death.

WHO also raised concerns about possible healthcare-related transmission. Reports suggested that at least four healthcare workers died from suspected viral haemorrhagic fever.

As concerns increased, residents in Antigua and Barbuda questioned the country’s readiness. One resident publicly asked whether enough safeguards existed at ports of entry.

The letter also questioned whether officials planned extra precautions for flights from affected regions. Furthermore, the resident raised concerns about testing capacity and outbreak management.

Merchant said the Ministry of Health has already upgraded operations within the Port Health Unit. Therefore, officials can improve monitoring and surveillance at ports of entry.

“Currently, there is the hantavirus scare, the Ebola outbreak, and also cases of malaria,” Merchant said.

Under the new measures, travellers will face expanded health screenings upon arrival. These screenings include temperature checks and enhanced travel monitoring procedures.

In addition, incoming travellers must provide their travel history for the previous 21 days. Officials say this step will help identify possible exposure risks.

Merchant also confirmed that the Infectious Disease Centre is being prepared as a precaution. As a result, Antigua and Barbuda hopes to respond quickly if necessary.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet praised the Ministry of Health for its proactive response and preparedness efforts.