«We cannot afford a new wave at the beginning of 2021. My line is and remains that of the utmost prudence. Until we have certain cures and a safe and effective vaccine, the only weapon we have are restrictions ». It is the message of Roberto Speranza, Minister of Health, guest of talk «The future healthcare between innovation and research» organized by RCS Academy. Interviewed by the director of the Courier service Luciano Fontana, the minister took stock of the pandemic situation in Italy. “We have to tell two truths that may seem contradictory – he explained -. The first is that the pressure on hospitals is high and the virus is circulating significantly. We cannot let our guard down. ‘
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Rt index down
«However, it is true that there are encouraging signs – added Speranza -, with RT dropped from 1.7 to 1.4, 1.18 in the past week, and it is possible that there is still a lower number this week. The lower Rt translates into a more encouraging situation also for access to emergency rooms and beds occupied in the medical and intensive care area, where a first element of countertrend begins to be reported. The measures we have taken in recent weeks are starting to have an effect. We have a sign of stabilization and reduction in RT, which is the first sign of a pressure that will be lower in the coming weeks. The game is still very tough, but we are following the path in the right direction, without committing lightness and escapes forward ».
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Inevitable limitations
Speaking of the recent debate on the reopening of schools, commercial activities and the start of the ski season by virtue of the first improving data, Speranza underlined: «We will wait for Friday’s report for evaluations. As a Minister of Health, I believe that with 800 victims our caution must be maximum and there are inevitable limitations. Let’s not forget what happened in the summer. A part of the country thought in good faith that the battle was over and that we could return to normal. Let’s see now what high price we have to pay. But there is no conflict between the right to health and the country’s recovery».
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A plan for health
The epidemic has highlighted the difficulties of the national health system, in particular in the care in the area. How to start again? “We must invest more in the national health system – confirmed Speranza -. Not enough has been done in the past. For 15 years, a law was in force which blocked healthcare spending at that of 2004, which decreased by 1.4 percent. The health expenditure model must be reprogrammed and close with the cutting season. We presented to Parliament, both in the House and in the Senate, a plan that can be financed with all the levers at our disposal, with the State Budget, the Recovery Fund and the Mes, which for me is an instrument to which we must look with absolute serenity. We need to open a new, great season of investments ».
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Centralized purchasing
It also works for the strengthening of home care, so that the home becomes the first place of care, especially for the chronically ill. A further effort is aimed at increasing scholarships for training of doctors. «In the relaunch decree 4,200 grants are financed, we must continue to invest as much as possible. The effects will only be seen in 4 or 5 years, but they are fundamental investments for the country to be stronger ». The talk also discussed the plan for the distribution of vaccines against Covid. The government is thinking of giving priority to healthcare workers, the elderly and the sick who are at greater risk in the face of infection, because the preparation will not be available to everyone at first. Speranza has removed the specter of chaos in the vaccination campaign similar to the one that is now being experienced with the flu. “In this case purchases will be centralized by the state».
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The vaccine will be safe
It also wiped out vaccine safety concerns. «I have great faith in the regulatory agencies, the EMA for Europe and Aifa for Italy. When they have completed the verification of all aspects, the vaccine will be effective and safe. Covid will be defeated by humanity, Europe and Italy thanks to scientific research and the ability of women and men to find structural solutions “.
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November 25, 2020 (change November 25, 2020 | 13:54)
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