The Turks and Caicos Islands Government, Ministry of Health is was represented at a workshop sponsored by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) which was geared at bolstering the Region’s preparedness for Ebola and other high risk threats by strengthening of capabilities of Caribbean Member States to manage possible outbreak situations.
The “Infectious Shipping Training” (November 17-19, 2014) focused on categorization, packaging and shipping of infectious substances. Successful participants received certification for a period of two years to package and ship Category A, infectious substances. The training was done in accordance with The World Health Organization (WHO) Guidance on regulations for the Transport of Infectious Substances 2013-2014.
The purpose of the workshop was to remind laboratories of the procedures that they should follow at all times when handling samples. The participants learnt how to handle infectious substances safely and work in a safe laboratory by mitigating the risk.
Mr. Andrico Garland, Medical Technologist TCI Hospitalstated; “I was privileged to have been among 13 participants from 12 Caribbean countries. I am now an IATA certified Category A Professional and prepared to continue my contribution to TCIG”
Hon. Porsha Stubbs-Smith, Minister of Health & Human Services acknowledged; “The Turks and Caicos Islands now have 4 Medical Technologists Certified as Category A Professionals. These 4 Medical Technologists are the only persons trained to handle and package infectious substances such as Ebola specimens.
“In addition to being trained and certified, the participants who have been trained at this workshop will become trainers in their respective institutions and countries. This is another example of the Governments commitent to strengthen its internal resources by utilizing all opportunites to do so.”
