The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability (MHES) and the Public Health Department (PHD) indicate that they have concluded the surveillance of BA253 passengers following confirmation from the Bahamian Ministry of Health and Wellness that the two passengers aboard the flight have tested negative for Ebola virus.
“I am happy to report that we have followed the established public health protocols and successfully completed the monitoring of the subgroup of passengers who had been identified via contact tracing by the Bahamian authorities for additional surveillance and support,” explains Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Hilary Wolf. “We want to thank our colleagues at the Public Health Department and Customs and Border Control for their diligence and professionalism. We also want to extend our gratitude to the passengers who cooperated with our team.”
Following reports that ESTA authorisations for passengers on flight 253 were being impacted, the Governor’s Office contacted UK authorities who are now working with US counterparts to better understand the circumstances. Initial indications suggest this arose from a precautionary measure, which is currently under review. Cayman Islands Government officials understand that affected ESTA authorisations are expected to be restored within approximately 21 days of the flight on 22 May.
While the surveillance of flight BA253 may have concluded, MHES and PHD continue to work with Customs and Border Control (CBC) and the Cayman Islands Airport Authority (CIAA) to ensure that passengers who arrive from areas that are impacted by the current Ebola outbreak are appropriately screened and monitored.
“Our colleagues at CBC are ensuring that all incoming travellers are questioned pertaining to their travel prior to arriving in the Cayman Islands,” explains Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Samuel Williams-Rodriguez. “If a person has travelled to an affected area, is experiencing Ebola-related symptoms or has had direct contact with a confirmed case, the Public Health Department is notified, and this triggers the monitoring and surveillance response.”
“We want to be clear that, at this time, the risk to the Cayman Islands remains low,” added Dr. Wolf. “Our advice remains for people to avoid travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo altogether, and avoid non-essential travel to Uganda. However, if persons have been to those areas, it is important that they disclose this upon arrival back on island so that we can ensure their safety and that of the community.”
To speak with a Public Health official, or to report symptoms, contact the Public Health Department on (345) 244-2849.