The number of citizens infected with coronavirus (COVID-19) rose to 272,364 in Peru and the death toll reached 8,939 as of Friday at 00:00 (local time), the Ministry of Health (Minsa) has confirmed.
Of those testing positive, 58% are men and 42% women.
1,332,157 samples tested negative for COVID-19 —out of a total of 1,604,521 samples taken.
It must be noted 159,806 people have been discharged and declared healthy. Other 10,964 are hospitalized.
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:
• Wear a face mask.
• 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.