In response to the alert declared by the
, Peru has the necessary screening and biosafety supplies for the various procedures aimed to respond to the new Coronavirus, a disease that began as an unusual outbreak of pneumonia in the city of Wuhan (China) in December 2019, Health Minister Elizabeth Hinostroza has affirmed.
While inaugurating the informative workshop titled "Protect yourself against the coronavirus," aimed at journalists, the minister said the
National Health Institute (INS) relies on molecular laboratories for the timely detection of cases.
"So far, there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus in Peru. Since the beginning of the disease, Minsa has been working on prevention actions," she told reporters.
Likewise, the high-ranking official highlighted the publication of the "National Preparedness and Response Plan against the Risk of Introducing Coronavirus 2019-nCoV," as well as the "Protocol for the Care of People with Suspicion or Infection Confirmed by Coronavirus (2019-nCoN)."
Dr. Hinostroza mentioned there is an action plan that is already implemented at all health facilities.
In addition, she recalled that —according to WHO— it is not necessary to close borders. Thus, Minsa must remain vigilant against the probability that any passenger may arrive in our country and show the symptoms. In that case, the person can be assisted immediately, in accordance with the established protocols.
"(…) WHO's recommendations do not talk about border or trade closures," the minister remarked.
She also indicated that the repatriated remains of the Peruvian citizen from the United States do not pose a risk of contagion and stressed that all preventive measures were taken for the corresponding transfer.
This informative workshop was organized in coordination with the
Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Precisely, Celso Bambaren, PAHO Emergency Health Advisor, explained that Coronavirus is a very high-risk disease.
On January 30, WHO declared the global alert for the expansion of Coronavirus.