Antigua and Barbuda to Strengthen Border Health Services at Airports and Seaports

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has approved plans to reorganise border health services to improve the detection and management of public health threats at the country’s airports and seaports.

The decision, taken during Cabinet’s October 21 meeting, will establish a unified Port Health and Border Health Services programme within the Ministry of Health.

The programme will cover V.C. Bird International Airport, Burton-Nibbs International Airport in Barbuda, St. John’s Port, Falmouth Harbour and Jolly Harbour.

According to the Cabinet report, the restructuring will improve coordination, standardise operations and strengthen responses to communicable diseases and other health risks linked to international travel and trade.

A Programme Manager will oversee staffing, resources and operations, while senior health officials will retain responsibility for medical, nursing and environmental health standards.

Cabinet reported approving 22 positions, although the staffing breakdown lists 24, leaving the final number unclear.

The proposed positions include medical officers, port health nurses, environmental health officers and a nurse epidemiologist.

Dedicated health personnel will be assigned to key entry points, including airports in Antigua and Barbuda, St. John’s Port and major harbours.

The Government said the changes are consistent with international health regulations and guidance from regional and international health organisations.

It added that stronger border health services would help protect residents and visitors while supporting tourism, trade and business continuity.

Source: Antigua News Room Cabinet Approves Overhaul of Border Health Services.