13:26 | Huanuco (Huanuco region), Feb. 21.
Health Minister Oscar Ugarte reported that cases of the Brazilian COVID-19 variant have been identified and reported in Peru.
Additionally, he affirmed that corresponding epidemiological control actions are being taken to prevent infection from spreading to other people.
"There was very evident suspicion that this Brazilian variant had entered the country; now it is confirmed, as cases have been reported," the high-ranking official said on Saturday.
Ugarte indicated that the Brazilian variant has traveled across Caballococha, Iquitos, Tarapoto, and Huanuco, as was the case with dengue, which entered Peru through the Amazon route and then spread, "since the virus moves when people move."
It can be assumed —he said— that the high mortality rate during the second wave in the central coast and central highlands of the country is the result of the confluence of two factors: the causes carried from the first wave of the pandemic and the emergence of
the Brazilian variant.
"This second wave continues to affect the central coast (Lima and Ica), but also the central highlands, that is to say, Huanuco, Pasco, Junin, and Huancavelica. In fact, it extends to Ayacucho and Apurimac. The coronavirus has been more concentrated in these regions during the second wave," he emphasized.
According to the minister, corresponding epidemiological control actions have been taken and they are bearing fruit.
"Cases and their contacts have been identified. Besides, they have not spread more broadly thanks to timely interventions, early diagnosis, isolation, health measures, and adequate treatment," he commented.
Remarks were made from Huanuco —one of the hardest-hit regions by COVID-19 during the second wave— in remarks to RPP radio and TV station.
(END) RRC/RMB
Published: 2/21/2021