Warning of potential ‘epidemic’ in Spain due to ‘dangerous’ stagnant flood water

Spain’s health minister has warned of a potential risk of an epidemic due to the dangers posed by “dangerous” stagnant flood water in the Valencia region. Monica Garcia said the “main challenge” the area faces is “epidemiological surveillance and prevention of outbreaks” after devastating floods swept through the region, killing at least 217 people.

Residents, especially those volunteering in clean-up operations, are being urged to follow strict guidance to ensure that they remain safe. Valencia’s regional president Carlos Mazon has also launched a rollout of tetanus vaccines for volunteers and residents, according to local news site Alicante Today.

The president has also requested Spain’s ministry of health to dispatch a team of epidemiologists to assess the situation. Posting on X, Monica Garcia, the minister for health, said: “The Ministry and the Department of Health continue to work on all fronts to protect those who need it most: victims, those affected and volunteers.

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“The main challenge now is epidemiological surveillance and prevention of outbreaks. Although there are some rumours circulating, the Ministry has not detected any outbreaks due to the DANA floods.

“But the danger is there and we are working to prevent it. The priority is to minimise the risks because stagnant waters can be dangerous. All warning and response systems must be strengthened.

“That is why we are updating protocols and instructions to intensify detection, sampling, identification and monitoring efforts. We have sent the current head of the Health Alerts and Emergencies Coordination Centre (CCAES), María José Sierra, to Valencia, along with a team of professionals