Call for calm in times of uncertainty
Amid the recent declaration of an international health emergency due to monkeypox by the World Health Organization (WHO), Mónica García, Minister of Health, has urged the population not to fall into alarmism. In an interview for Las Mañanas de RNE, García emphasized the importance of communicating with prudence and scientific rigor.
Criticism of political disinformation
The minister took the opportunity to criticise the Popular Party, accusing it of spreading rumours and misinformation at a critical time. García argued that the dissemination of erroneous messages could undermine public confidence in health measures, stating that ‘the more we misinform, the less confidence there will be in public health actions’.
Preparations and resources available in Spain
García assured that Spain has an adequate supply of vaccines and an effective response capacity to possible outbreaks. He recalled that the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has assessed the risk as low, and that the WHO has denied the idea that monkeypox represents a new crisis similar to COVID-19.
Surveillance and vaccination measures
The minister stressed that no border restrictions have been recommended, but information for travellers will be improved. The focus will be on increasing surveillance and vaccination among the most vulnerable groups, such as healthcare personnel in contact with cases of sexually transmitted infections.
The need for a coordinated response
In response to the initiative of some autonomous communities governed by the PP to open new vaccination centres without waiting for decisions from the central government, García stressed the importance of acting in a coordinated manner. ‘Collaboration between the Ministry and the communities is essential to provide clear and effective messages,’ he said.
Willingness to be accountable in the Senate
Following criticism from the PP about the alleged lack of action by the government, Mónica García was open to appearing in the Senate to explain the measures adopted. She defended that the Ministry of Health is providing all the necessary information to the relevant authorities, reaffirming its commitment to an effective response to the situation.
Looking to the future
As the situation evolves, the Minister of Health reiterates the importance of remaining calm and acting on the basis of scientific data. Coordination and effective communication will continue to be essential to meet the challenges presented by monkeypox and any other health crisis that may arise.