The Health Ministry has set up a Malaria Desk at the Ogle International Airport (OIA) in a bid to contain the transmission of the disease.
Vector Control Services Director, Dr Reyad Rahaman said the initiative is a part of the department’s 2014 master plan to reduce malaria cases in Guyana.
He noted that the desk will become operational in the coming weeks and praised the support of the OIA management, Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud and Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsarran in making the project a reality.
Dr Rahaman said given the fact that the airport has international status, it is necessary for passengers coming to Guyana to be screened and receive treatment.
Also, given the mining sector has been rapidly expanding, persons going to certain interior locations will receive medication while those coming out will be screened.
Meanwhile, malaria personnel attached to the Malaria Centre at the Georgetown Public Hospital will visit the homes of Georgetown residents to sensitise them on the causes, symptoms and treatment for the virus.
In the next few months, the Malaria Department will also improve radio service/contact to receive valuable and up to date information from remote areas in Guyana.
Guyana has seen a five per cent reduction in malaria cases from January 2013 to present. This is due to effective smearing campaigns and continuous education programmes.
