Ali S. Khan, M.D., M.P.H., dean of the UNMC College of Public Health, left Omaha Tuesday to provide epidemiologic assistance to the World Health Organization (WHO) in Sierra Leone in response to the Ebola outbreak.
He flew to Geneva to meet with officials at the WHO headquarters, then will continue to the West African nation.
See the Omaha World-Herald story on Dr. Khan’s trip here.
Last week, UNMC joined WHO’s Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) and almost immediately Dr. Khan was directed through a medical assessment and required security training. He will assist with exploring the dynamics of the disease in the country and reviewing prevention strategies in support of the WHO country office for the next four to six weeks.
As of Jan. 27, WHO reported that Sierra Leone has been hit hard by the Ebola outbreak. Since the outbreak began last year, there have been 10,518 people infected and 3,199 deaths in the country. New cases are reported to be in decline.
“I am pleased and honored to be asked to assist in the response. As part of GOARN, we are able to share our expertise globally,” Dr. Khan said.
“This temporary assignment will permit me to identify new collaborators and opportunities for students and strengthen our relationship with WHO,” he said.
WHO will cover all travel expenses and medical evacuation insurance plus security measures in-country, Dr. Khan said. “Given this abundance of caution, I am confident that I can safely undertake this mission.”
“We are proud that Dr. Khan has been asked to join the WHO team in Sierra Leone,” said UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D. “UNMC is part of the global leadership, and we have a responsibility to support national and global preparedness activities through our National Center for Health Security and Biomedical Preparedness. We are grateful that Dean Khan has the knowledge and experience to help lead this important global effort.”