ARM training workshop for Ebola responders

People wearing personal protective equipment

ARM training workshop for Ebola responders

The ARM network presented a 1 day intensive workshop for ARM members intending to deploy to West Africa for the Ebola response, as well as for first-line responders (GP, police, defence, emergency workers, paramedics)  in Australia who may be faced with a local case. We are aware that some responders are non-clinicians, and that some clinician responders do not have extensive infectious diseases training. Field epidemiologists and first line responders may also be in situations of increased risk in contact tracing activities outside of the direct clinical setting. Given the high rate of health worker infections in the West African outbreak, there is clearly a major occupational health and safety risk to responders. A free short workshop was offered for ARM members who are considering deploying for the Ebola outbreak. The workshop intended to fill gaps in routine training provided by deploying agencies.

Workshop videos now available

 

 

'The occupational health risk of Ebola for health workers and transmission of infectious diseases' - Prof. Raina MacIntyre

'The clinical features of Ebola virus disease (EVD)'- Dr Michelle Barnes

'Ebola and respiratory protection' - Prof. Raina MacIntyre

 

'Panel discussion: Health system and socio-cultural dynamics in West Africa ' - Facilitated by Dr Mohamud Sheikh

'Ebola and infection control ' - Dr Catarina Aneman

'Information on hand hygiene and environmental contamination' - Prof. Mary-Louise McLaws

 

'General practice and Ebola virus disease ' - Prof. Nicholas Zwar

'2014 West Africa Ebola outbreak: Médecins Sans Frontières' response ' - Mr Brett Adamson of MSF who has worked as part of the West African Ebola response

'Food and water safety in the field ' - A/Prof. Martyn Kirk

 

'Ebola virus - virology, diagnosis and treatment principles ' - Prof. Bill Rawlinson

 

 

Workshop content was delivered by relevant experts and included:

  • Hospital infection control
  • Hand hygiene
  • Personal Protective Equipment
  • Disinfection and environmental controls
  • Collection and handling of laboratory specimens
  • Update on experimental drugs and vaccines
  • Clinical features of Ebola including paediatric vs adult disease
  • Packing for your trip
  • Cultural, social and health system issues in Liberia and Sierra Leone (delivered by health professionals from those countries)