18 Feb 2015

Block 8 clinic in Gaborone does not pose any danger to residents of Block 8 as a holding clinic for Ebola.

Responding to a question in Parliament, the Assistant Minister for Health Dr Alfred Madigele said Block 8 was identified and selected as an isolation centre for suspected and confirmed cases of highly infectious diseases including Ebola because of its closeness to the airport, parking space, two separate blocks, layout of rooms for both staff and patients and patient flow configuration, close proximity to specialist services as well as referral facility.

Dr Madigele also stated that the facility was renovated and equipped to handle highly infectious cases in 2009 and it was also used as an isolation site during the H1N1 influenza pandemic preparedness. 

He said in 2009, his ministry addressed councilors in Gaborone City Council seeking the approval for Block 8 clinic on H1N1 which was consequently granted by the then Gaborone town Clerk.

He stated that they also sensitised the community including councilors in their monthly education, health and social and community development meetings about Ebola preparedness and response plan.  

He said the ministry also had consultative meetings with the local leadership.

Gaborone North MP, Mr Haskins Nkaigwa had asked what criteria was used to select Block 8 clinic in Gaborone as a holding centre for suspected Ebola cases and whether the people of Block 8 were consulted during the decision making process as well as the dangers that are posed by the exercise to the residents of Block 8.  ENDS