The number of citizens infected with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) rose to 117 in Peru as at Tuesday, March 17, when the country enters its second day under the
decreed by the Government in order to combat the spread of this disease.
The information was confirmed this morning by Health Minister Elizabeth Hinostroza, who reported that 13 of said cases require hospitalization, while three (3) patients are in a medically unstable condition since they need artificial respiration.
"Two of the serious cases are located in Lima and one in Piura. One of them is a 47-year-old priest with morbid obesity and another involves a 97-year-old man," she expressed.
The minister called on the population to comply with the social isolation —stipulated by the Government as part of the state of national emergency— and with the personal hygiene requirements, as well as to cover their faces when coughing and sneezing.
She also urged them to avoid direct contact with people who have respiratory illnesses.
Minsa is the official source of authorized information on coronavirus in the South American country. Thus, the content circulating in social media and other unofficial networks should not be deemed as true.
The ministry recommends washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; covering nose and mouth with the forearm or a tissue when coughing or sneezing; avoiding eye, nose, and mouth touching with unwashed hands; and avoiding close contact with people who have respiratory illnesses.
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.