SIOUX FALLS (KFGO-AM) -- A Sanford Health team back from West Africa says five clinics operated by the Dakota's-based medical group in Ghana are prepared for an Ebola outbreak. Ghana is one of the few countries in that region not yet reporting the deadly virus.
Cindy Morrison, Sanford's Executive Vice President for Maketing and Public Policy says protocols are in place. She says with a country the size of Minnesota, Ghana has been watching its borders, but "it's not a chance of if Ebola gets to Ghana, it's when."
Morrison says she was impressed by plans in place for whatever route the virus might take. She says Sanford has excellent infectious disease experts in the U.S. who are involved with international clinic staff to make sure procedures are in place.
While chances are slim for an Ebola outbreak in the U.S., Sanford Health has response plans ready. At Sanford's Fargo hospital, that includes an Ebola cart stocked next to the door. The full gear includes gowns, face shields, masks, gloves and leg and shoe covers.