on Thursday reported that Peru has the number of vaccines needed to meet the epidemiological alert decreed against
Within this framework, the Cabinet chief lamented the two deaths caused by diphtheria, and said that the epidemiological fence set in Lima's San Martin de Porres and La Victoria districts —where the victims used to reside— will serve to detect new cases.
"The citizens residing in 120 blocks around the areas, where the infected people used to live, are being vaccinated. This national alert will help us to detect if other cases occur in some other part of the country," he expressed.
"There is an adequate number of vaccines for diphtheria, and the national vaccination plan is being crafted; yesterday, the
Health Minister (Pilar Mazzetti) informed me that a process for purchasing a greater quantity of vaccines is being carried out," he added.
The high-ranking official commented that —at this moment— the origin of the disease remains a mystery, as it is an issue which is still under investigation to determine whether diphtheria has been exported or not. "However, the important thing is that the Government is providing an adequate response."
"The national alert has already been issued. There is a vaccination plan, and the necessary vaccines are being purchased. At this time, we have an adequate quantity to start vaccinating the population selectively; this plan will remain in force by carrying out an epidemiological follow-up investigation," he stated.
On October 27, Deputy Public Health Minister Luis Suarez confirmed the first case of diphtheria —after 20 years— in Peru. A 5-year-old girl died from a heart complication days later.