Coronavirus in Argentina | The Government clarified that the legal termination of pregnancy is an “essential service”

The Government explained that the recommendation for the health system is “suspend routine controls so as not to overload the system” by the coronavirus. But he clarified that the legal termination of pregnancy and access to contraceptive methods are outside these restrictions.

The coordinator of Adolescence Health of the Ministry of Health Juan Carlos Escobar said that these two services are considered “essential”, amid the strong limitations of activities due to quarantine.

In the presentation of the daily report, he explained that there are “caveats” in the restrictions of the health system. He said that the World Health Organization (WHO) considers both ILE and access to contraceptive methods “essential services”, and that they work with the provinces to guarantee these benefits.

Regarding the isolation, he acknowledged that “it is not easy to stay at home” and asked for everyone’s effort to guarantee the success of the measure, which he indicated is “transitory”. He asked that parents be alert to “situations of irritability, anger, anxiety and even depression” of their children.

He noted that quarantine is “physical, but not emotional” and that it is important for people to stay connected, in communication with their family and friends. He also asked the young people to be solidary with older adults, especially with virtual procedures to avoid having to leave their homes.

He explained that while the limitations last, it is important to take care of the emotional health like physical and gave advice. “It is good to enable listening spaces, where the word can circulate and raise questions regarding the pandemic,” he said. He also recommended that young people help with household chores.