Youth behaviour is decisive for COVID-19 prevention, says Regional Secretary for Health
The Regional Health Secretary stressed today at the launch of the #SafeNight project that "we cannot lower our guard," pointing out that "young people's behaviour will be decisive" in the prevention and containment strategy for the COVID-19 pandemic.
Teresa Machado Luciano spoke on the sidelines of the presentation of the project in Ponta Delgada. On the occasion, she stated that the #SafeNight intervention project is “essential to raise young people's awareness” for protective behaviours that must be safeguarded when going out at night, enhancing measures implemented in the Region to prevent and contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Prevention is a very important area for the Regional Government," stressed the Regional Secretary for Health. In this context, the São Miguel Island Health Unit has responded promptly to the challenge launched by the Regional Directorate for Prevention and Control of Dependencies, mobilising its School Health Team and other professionals.
"Young people should go out, because fun is also important, but in safety," the government official stressed, adding that the campaign will take place in outdoor cafes and in other public outdoor spaces frequented by young people for six weekends, between August 1 and September 4.
Teresa Machado Luciano also recalled the need to reinforce the COVID-19 preventive measures, stressing that, in addition to physical distance, use of mask, hand washing and respiratory etiquette, “now, more than ever, young people should avoid sharing glasses and other objects."
The initiatives planned under #SafeNight include the Theatre Forum. Under this activity, General and Family Medicine interns will stage and promote the debate on the behaviours to be adopted by young people on night outings and organise flashmobs in partnership with a dance group.
The Regional Secretary noted that this campaign fits into the health promotion model adopted by the Regional Government. It advocates a suitable approach “to the different cycles and contexts of people's lives,” seeking to provide them with the “knowledge and skills necessary for the protection of their health and community health."
The #SafeNight project was developed by the School Health Team of the São Miguel Island Health Unit and ARRISCA - Regional Association for Rehabilitation and Sociocultural Integration of the Azores under the coordination of the Regional Directorate for Prevention and Control of Dependencies.