Statement from Gharb Local Council – The Gharb Local Council strongly condemns the messages which are being announced by the media with regards to the cases ‘H1N1′ found in the locality of Gharb. Although the Council does not want to disturb the journalists from carrying out their work, on the other hand there are some who are not being professional and not observing the journalist ethics and are therefore irresponsible in their actions. This is leading to the distribution of information regarding the victims of this virus where in small localities in Gozo one can be easily identified.

The Council is working hand in hand with the Health Department and with the Parliamentary Secretary for Health and Prevention Mario Galea so that all the necessary precautions are taken in order to protect the victims and encourage them to collaborate in order not to increase more cases. The Council is keeping in constant contact and is kindly asking the doctors that are visiting their patients to inform immediately the responsible division in order to take the necessary precautions.

On the other hand the Council condemns the journalists’ actions that are using the locality feast which has been celebrated last week to amplify their articles. The Council also condemns the media in general for publishing the names of the localities in Gozo whereas this is not being done for cases happening in Malta. This is causing a state of alarm and less security in the localities. This is also bringing a negative impact in the tourism sector where operators are complaining that they are receiving booking cancellations.

In light of all this situation the Council is appealing all those responsible to stop immediately their irresponsible actions being published on all type of media. The aim of the Council and the authorities that are working together is that everyone in this situation is responsible and careful and above all take care of the resident’s health and all those visiting the locality.

The Council would like to thank all the doctors that are giving their service and the Parliamentary Secretary Mario Galea for the support and continuous contact to make sure that an immediate and professional service is given. Finally the Council is kindly appealing all those who are infected to be careful and observe the directives which are being given. The Council also appeals all journalists to carry out their work with dedication and be responsible and in the same time not to create panics and alarms when it is not necessary.

Gharb Local Council