Peru: Possible third COVID-19 wave peak to be registered in Jan or early Feb

"In Lima, it could probably be in January or early February if this intensity of infections continues; however, it will take a little longer at the national level," said Cesar Munayco, General Director of Public Health Surveillance at the Ministry of Health (Minsa).

The expert said that if "we talk about a third wave peak" at the national level, it will take time to express itself because Lima is currently the epicenter of contagion due to the high presence of the Omicron variant.

"At the national level, there has been a noticeable increase in cases, especially in Metropolitan Lima. Cases have almost doubled compared to the previous week. These cases are located in Miraflores, San Isidro, Surco, Jesus Maria, and Magdalena (districts)," he detailed in remarks to RPP radio and TV station.

Likewise, the official pointed out that this large number of positive cases is due for the most part to Christmas and New Year celebrations.

"At this moment, Lima is the area with the most explosive rate, and from there it is spreading to other regions. In Lima and some regions, it has basically occurred due to the holidays. This increase happened because of Christmas (reunions), but what happened due to New Year (gatherings) is still missing. Most likely, in the next few weeks, there will be a much greater increase. Since the country is large and diverse, it will probably take a little longer to reach the peak," he explained.

The researcher indicated that —at the regional level— there is an increase in cases, but still moderate —unlike Lima.

According to the expert, Amazonas, Lambayeque, Moquegua, Tacna, Piura, and Lima are regions where cases continue to grow.

Moreover, the official reminded citizens that the pandemic is accentuated by human behavior, because it is people who move with the virus.

"Of all the screenings for genomic evaluation purposes, 53% reveal the presence of Omicron. What is expected is that in the following weeks this variant will begin, at least in Lima, to displace the other variants, especially the Delta that circulates more frequently," Dr. Munayco said.

Once again, he reminded the population of the importance of getting vaccinated and complying with biosafety measures.

(END) KGR/LIT/MVB