Feijóo demands that Sánchez decree confinement in Ceuta because of the health risk of scabies and tuberculosis

More than 600 medical attendances were recorded among migrants in Ceuta within 48 hours, prompting urgent action from Spain’s health ministry to coordinate vaccine distribution with regional authorities. The situation has intensified concerns over public health risks linked to the large influx of undocumented immigrants into the Spanish enclave, which borders Morocco. The surge in medical cases comes amid reports of a significant number of individuals entering Ceuta, primarily through informal crossings near the border. According to official figures, over 70,000 unauthorized arrivals have been documented since late July. This unprecedented flow has overwhelmed local infrastructure, including healthcare services, leading to increased pressure on emergency care facilities. Health officials have confirmed the presence of contagious diseases such as scabies, tuberculosis, and gastrointestinal infections, alongside isolated cases of chickenpox. These conditions have raised alarms about potential outbreaks, particularly given the transient nature of many migrants who lack stable housing or access to regular medical care. In response to these developments, the leader of Spain’s opposition party, People's Party (PP), Alberto Núñez Feijóo, has called on Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to impose a lockdown in Ceuta under the grounds of a “health risk.” In an interview with Europa Press, Feijóo cited discussions with representatives from the College of Physicians and the College of Nurses in Ceuta, who informed him of the severity of the situation. They highlighted the spread of infectious diseases, emphasizing that the risk posed by thousands of individuals moving freely through the city, many lacking shelter or basic hygiene, could lead to widespread contagion. He specifically noted that scabies had affected military personnel, underscoring the broader implications for public safety. Feijóo criticized the delay in intervention by Health Minister Mónica García, accusing her of taking 17 days to visit Ceuta despite having access to epidemiological data indicating the threat. He argued that such a prolonged absence was unacceptable, especially during a time when the region faces heightened health challenges. His remarks reflect growing frustration among political opponents regarding the government’s handling of the migrant crisis, which they view as both a humanitarian and security issue. To address immediate health concerns, the Ministry of Health has convened an urgent teleconference with regional authorities on Monday, August 24, to discuss the rapid deployment of vaccines. The meeting aims to activate solidarity mechanisms for vaccine distribution, prioritizing immunization against diseases such as measles, chickenpox, poliomyelitis, tetanus, and diphtheria. This initiative reflects efforts to mitigate the spread of preventable illnesses while ensuring vulnerable populations receive necessary protection. Separately, Feijóo has expressed opposition to the inclusion of children in the current aid package for Ceuta, arguing that the European Union and Spain must prioritize the return of minors to Morocco. He has urged accelerated repatriation, suggesting that children should either return to their families or be placed under Moroccan child welfare authorities if family ties are unclear. His stance aligns with broader calls for stricter control over migration flows, particularly concerning minors, whom he claims are being treated as a separate issue rather than part of a larger crisis of sovereignty. As tensions mount, the government faces mounting pressure to balance humanitarian obligations with public health imperatives. With more than 600 medical interventions already recorded and ongoing discussions about containment measures, the coming days will likely determine how effectively Spain can manage this complex and evolving challenge.