The healthcare landscape has changed but nurses continue to be inspirational

On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak a global pandemic. At that time, the WHO noted deep concern both because of the alarming levels of spread and severity, and because of the disturbing levels of inaction. Countries around the world were called upon to take action to contain the virus and Gibraltar was no exception to this. Nurses around the globe—inspirational nurses—stepped up to the plate during the height of COVID-19 and are still dealing with its ravages, such as long COVID, ongoing vaccination programmes and public health needs and health education.

In Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory, British forces were originally drafted in to support deployment, share intelligence and assist with the setting up of our Nightingale Hospital. With the infrastructure in place, Gibraltar was equipped and set up to provide care and support to the nation as well its health and social care staff.