Dr Parasram re-assures there are no confirmed cases of SARS in TT

It is quite possible that SARS can be imported into Trinidad and Tobago.

This was the sentiment expressed by Dr Rampersad Parasram, Ag CMO in his television address to the nation last night. He wished to inform citizens of the measures put in place by the Ministry of Health to respond to an outbreak of SARS if one was to occur. Representatives of CAREC and the World Health Organisation (WHO) are among the members of a task force, appointed by the Ministry, which has developed a response plan. Dissemination of information, surveillance at ports of entry, screening at health facilities, and isolation and management of probable cases are the essential components of the plan. “The plan is in effect and will be adjusted as necessary,” said Parasram.

Parasram referred to the WHO travel advisory against travel to Toronto and China and the SARS Declaration Forms which the Ministry hopes will reduce the risk of importation. Airlines are presently in possession of these forms and are expected to distribute them to passengers during flights. Forms are to be filled out by passengers and collected by the crew on landing. Before passengers are allowed to disembark, the forms are to be reviewed by a Health Control Officer who will determine whether or not there are any probable cases of SARS on the flight.

Based on the opinion of a Medical Officer 1, the suspected case will be quarantined or referred to one of the major hospitals via Emergency Health Services Ambulance. Parasram said, “This is part of our enhanced surveillance to prevent SARS.” He made a call for all persons who suspect that they may have contracted the virus, to contact a health centre or hospital, inform staff members of your reason for visiting and have anyone with whom you were in close contact seek medical advice. Parasram reassured the nation that there are no confirmed cases of SARS in the country and said, “Members of the public will be informed as to any new developments.”