In light of the alert —issued by the World Health Organization (WHO)— about the need for the world
to prepare to face the novel coronavirus COVID-19, Peru's Ministry of Health (Minsa) announced that five hospitals in Lima are ready to treat patients suspected of having contracted the virus that broke out in Wuhan, China.
In a press conference, the sector's head Elizabeth Hinostroza announced that the above-mentioned hospitals are Dos de Mayo, Hipolito Unanue, Villa El Salvador, Sergio Bernales, and Vitarte.
Isolation wards have been set up and the provision of inputs for infection control is being guaranteed at these healthcare facilities.
To that end, Minsa has produced two key documents: the "National Preparedness and Response Plan for Coronavirus COVID-19 Introduction" and the "Protocol for Treatment of Confirmed and Suspected Cases of Coronavirus COVID-19," which are supported by the National Health Council, and the
Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
Additionally, the National Health Institute (INS) relies on molecular laboratories for timely detection of cases.
Hinostroza underlined the fact that Minsa leads the multisectoral efforts to detect and prevent a spread of coronavirus in Peru.
Therefore, it has implemented action plans with other institutions such as
EsSalud, the Armed Forces health department, as well as ministries of transport, education, and foreign trade and tourism, among others.
Prevention
Minsa recommends that people should take the following preventive measures:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Cover your nose and mouth with your forearm or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
(END) NDP/RES/RMB
Published: 2/26/2020