Workers in the tourism industry are being sensitised about infectious diseases through a series of workshops organised by the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) and the Ministry of Health.

The workshops are being used to educate hoteliers and their staff on how to carry out preventative measures as well as how to treat with any suspected cases of infectious diseases, including Ebola.

The first workshop was held in Negril on October 16, and others have been scheduled for Montego Bay, Kingston, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, and the south coast in the ensuing weeks.

JHTA President Nicola Madden Greig, noting the ban issued on travellers to Jamaica from Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, by the Jamaican Government, said that “the preservation of the health, safety and welfare of Jamaicans is of paramount importance. Collectively, we must all ensure that Ebola does not occur in Jamaica”.

Madden Greig said that the JHTA started working with the ministries of health and tourism and entertainment weeks ago to disseminate accurate information and sensitisation about Ebola across the island. She said the JHTA will continue to provide information and support to its members.