Peru might register more than 7,000 deaths in a moderate scenario of infections during the fourth wave of the coronavirus pandemic,
"We have estimates for COVID-19-related deaths in three different scenarios. In the mild scenario, there might be 2,929 deaths; in a moderate scenario, they might reach 7,287; and in an extreme case, the figure might be 8,083," the
Health Ministry (Minsa) head indicated before Congress' Special Commission for Monitoring Emergencies and COVID-19 Disaster Risk Management.
In his speech, the Cabinet member explained that to date at least 3,675,152 positive cases of the SARS-CoV-2 virus have been confirmed —of which 105,068 were diagnosed in this fourth wave.
During his presentation on the prioritized actions to address the
start of the latest wave in Peru,
Minister Lopez reminded citizens of the importance of completing the vaccination process against the coronavirus.
To date, 78,882,523 doses have been administered —of which 29,574,250 are first doses (90.22%); 27,736,513 are second doses (84.61%); 19,055,115 third doses (66.67%); and 2,516,645 fourth doses (19.67%), he specified.
The Minister also explained that the rate of childhood vaccination (5 to 11 years old) continues growing. At this time, 2,312,353 minors already have received the second dose —a figure that represents 55.03% of the target population.
Over 3,000 ICU beds
"Given the decrease in patients requiring ICU beds, these beds were used to treat other pathologies. The number of beds has not been reduced; it has only been given another use for non-COVID patients," he explained.
Lastly, the Minister announced that
Minsa relies on 456 operational medical oxygen plants nationwide, which produce 346 tons of oxygen per day and more than 26,000 10-m3 oxygen cylinders.