With the Jubilee approaching and millions of people expected to arrive in Rome, Italy is preparing to face new public health challenges. The risk of infectious disease spread, including mpox, avian flu, and COVID-19, calls for a coordinated response among public agencies, scientific societies, and healthcare professionals.
A real risk, learned from the past
The experience with COVID-19 in Rome, where the first case in Italy was detected, has left an indelible mark. "The risk of new outbreaks," explains Furio Colivicchi, vice president of the Federation of Italian Medical-Scientific Societies, "is real and requires a robust, well-organized surveillance system. Particular attention is needed for tourist flows from countries where some of these diseases are already present, such as South and North America, which have recently reported numerous cases of mpox and avian flu."
The importance of health surveillance
Border health surveillance, managed by health services at airports and major entry points, will be critical, as will the preparedness of emergency rooms and healthcare facilities, which must be equipped with appropriate diagnostic tools. "The healthcare system," Colivicchi explained to Medikea.it, "must begin monitoring incoming flows at Italy’s borders. The lack of clear information on the current spread of diseases such as avian flu and mpox creates significant uncertainties for the health sector."
Tackling the risk of covid variants
As winter approaches, concerns about the spread of new COVID-19 variants grow. Experts suggest revisiting vaccination campaigns, particularly for healthcare workers and other high-risk groups.
Prevention measures
The lessons of the past urge us not to lower our guard. Collaboration among public agencies, scientific societies, and citizens will be crucial in addressing these new health challenges during a time when Rome becomes the focus of global attention. What advice can be offered to pilgrims and Roman residents to ensure a safe Jubilee?
"Simple hygiene practices remain essential," responds cardiologist Colivicchi, who emphasizes, "Washing hands frequently, especially after contact with public environments, is a key habit. Additionally, in crowded places such as churches and public spaces during religious events, wearing masks could once again become an important precaution. Vaccinating against COVID-19, influenza, and pneumococcus is also critical for the elderly, heart patients, and those with respiratory conditions to reduce complications and facilitate the diagnosis of potential respiratory infections."
The role of scientific societies: interdisciplinarity and integration
A vital contribution comes from FISM (Federation of Medical Scientific Societies), which brings together over 200 associations and tens of thousands of specialists. FISM promotes interdisciplinarity and integration of expertise, breaking down cultural and professional barriers to maximize the healthcare response. Collaboration with the Ministry of Health is one of the key tools for defining effective strategies, as demonstrated during the G7 in Bari, which focused on antibiotic resistance—a problem closely tied to infectious diseases.
