Ayuso denounces lack of coordination from the Government in hantavirus crisis

The Madrid president demands clarity in health management

Isabel Díaz Ayuso, president of the Community of Madrid, has expressed her deep concern over the management of the hantavirus outbreak affecting a group of Spaniards on a cruise. During a recent interview, Ayuso openly criticised the government of Pedro Sánchez for what she considers a lack of control in communication and handling of this health crisis.

Ayuso is currently in Mexico for an official visit, but has not overlooked the critical situation facing her community. The leader revealed that the only contact she has had with the Minister of Territorial Policy, Ángel Víctor Torres, was insufficient and did not provide relevant information about the transfer of the 14 Spaniards affected by the hantavirus. “The direct information we have is the minister's call, but he called me to read the press,” Ayuso commented.

The Madrid president compared this situation to the difficulties faced during the early days of the pandemic in 2020. “Every time a crisis comes, there is no one at the wheel,” Ayuso stated, pointing out that both she and other regional leaders are receiving contradictory versions about how the case will be handled. While some ministers provide different details about the treatment and quarantine of the passengers, Ayuso feels frustrated by the lack of a clear and coherent line from the central government.

One of the most debated points has been the government's decision to send the passengers to the Gómez Ulla Hospital, a military facility where another group was quarantined six years ago. Ayuso admitted not understanding on what criteria this hospital was chosen to treat the new patients: “I don’t know why or under what criteria this centre was selected,” she expressed.

Despite the information chaos, Ayuso assured that Madrid is prepared to respond to this health emergency. “The healthcare system is top-notch and we will focus on all necessary measures to ensure safety,” she emphasised. However, she reiterated her frustration at not having more official information on how to proceed in this critical situation.