The Ministry of Health has reassured Barbadians that the risk of Ebola reaching the island remains low, while stressing that health authorities already have systems in place to respond to any suspected cases coming into the island.

The statement comes against the backdrop of rising public concern following the World Health Organisation (WHO) declaration of the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

Speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing at Illaro Court on Thursday, Minister of Health and Wellness Senator Lisa Cummins and Chief Medical Officer Dr Kenneth George said the Government has been actively engaging international partners, including the WHO and Ebola specialists, to strengthen Barbados’ preparedness and response framework.