17:10 | Iquitos (Loreto region), Jul. 17.
In order to support timely and rapid response actions for COVID-19, the National Service for Protected Natural Areas (Sernanp) —an agency attached to the Peruvian
Ministry of the Environment— has introduced the first river ambulance service in the
Pacaya Samiria National Reserve to take care of forest rangers and specialists.
The implementation of this important service will reinforce security measures for visitors to this
protected natural area —located in Loreto region— during the resumption of activities and tourist visits.
According to Enrique Neyra, the head of said reserve, this quick-sailing vessel will help step up the actions aimed at fighting the novel coronavirus, while resuming the management of natural resources, such as taricayas, aguaje, and paiche, among others.
This means of transportation will be used in cases of emergency, prioritizing evacuations of COVID-19 cases, and facilitating transfers to medical centers in the city of Iquitos.
The ambulance has two ventilated compartments, isolated from each other, which protect the crew and prevent contagion.
In addition, it is equipped with two stretchers, first-aid equipment, and a bathroom.
Invisible and deadly enemy
Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) or the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). These viruses can be transmitted between animals and people.
The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new strain that had not been previously identified in humans. It is transmitted from human to human through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. COVID-19 is also transmitted by close contact with people infected by the virus.
(END) NDP/JOT/RMB/MVB
Published: 7/17/2020