puncture wave in Spain | Internal Affairs already analyzes 60 complaints
The Ministry of Health is moving toward finalizing a new protocol designed to guide the care of victims of chemical contamination caused by punctures. The plan aims to be approved by next Monday at the latest and will include updated procedures for the medical evaluation of victims, specialized training for healthcare staff, and an enhanced system for escalating complaints. The measures touch on incidents reported in the Community of Valencia, where authorities have noted a rise in concerns about puncture-related harm. This information was shared by the Minister of Participation, Rose Garijo, who spoke during today’s plenary session of the Consell to clarify the topics under discussion.
Garijo indicated that Health Minister Miguel Mínguez had informed the council that the protocol would be approved by Monday at the latest. While describing the surge in violence against women as deeply troubling, she urged calm and emphasized that such news should not trigger social alarm. She also highlighted the importance of keeping young people from withdrawing from public life, including leisure activities like festivals and concerts, especially in light of recent trends following a two-year pause caused by the pandemic.
In this context, the organization Botànic reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and to combating violence against women. It stressed that it would continue collaborating with the national government to address this issue, which remains a major concern across the region.
The Ministry of Health clarified to Europa Press that the update constitutes a revision of the comprehensive Protocol on health and forensic care for sexual assault victims. The revision includes a dedicated chapter for the Community of Valencia on the care of individuals exposed to chemical agents through punctures. The current guidance already contains an appendix detailing sample collection at health centers in suspected cases of drug-facilitated sexual assault and reiterates that the chain of custody will be guaranteed and documented at all times.
Additionally, the protocol specifies that certain health information may be transferred without the consent of the affected person when it serves judicial purposes. It also confirms that direct transfer of health data to the authorities involved in initial investigations, such as the State Security Forces and the Judicial Police, is considered completely acceptable when necessary for legal proceedings. This emphasis on data handling and interagency coordination reflects the ongoing priority of ensuring accurate documentation, appropriate patient care, and reliable evidence for the judiciary while safeguarding patient rights wherever possible.