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'Tiny Iceland' preparing for Ebola in a globalized world
Geir Gunnlaugsson1, Íris Eva Hauksdóttir2, Ib Christian Bygbjerg2
1a Faculty of Sociology, Anthropology and Folkloristics , University of Iceland , Reykjavík , Iceland.
Global Health Action
|May 8, 2019
Summary
Icelandic healthcare workers felt prepared for Ebola, but feared its arrival and potential stigma. Effective communication and scenario-based training boosted confidence, though challenges in teamwork and resource limitations were noted.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Healthcare Preparedness
- Infectious Disease Management
Background:
- The 2014 Ebola epidemic in West Africa prompted global health security concerns.
- Preparedness activities were initiated worldwide, including in geographically distant nations like Iceland.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze Ebola preparedness measures within Iceland's healthcare system.
- To understand the experiences and perspectives of healthcare managers and frontline workers.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative case study approach was employed.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 participants.
- Participants included members of the national Ebola Treatment Team, Emergency Room staff, and response team managers.
Main Results:
- Cultural and demographic factors influenced preparedness, fostering resourcefulness.
- Staff expressed confidence in readiness but doubted Ebola's likelihood in Iceland.
- Fear of Ebola and associated stigma led to personal protective measures for families.
- Concerns arose regarding teamwork and training commitment.
- Iceland's small size was perceived as both an advantage and disadvantage.
- Open communication and scenario-based training enhanced confidence in response plans.
Conclusions:
- Effective communication and training are crucial for health staff preparedness in handling potential Ebola cases.
- Despite preparedness, doubts about staff capacity persisted.
- Regular enactment of likely global health threat scenarios is vital.
- Global support is essential for nations with fragile healthcare systems.
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