President Martin Vizcarra announced new cases of
the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) Wednesday, bringing the total in Peru to 13.
His remarks were made in a televised statement from the Government Palace in Lima.
"It should be noted here this morning, that the number of people infected with the novel coronavirus grew to 13," he told reporters. In this sense, the top official said 487 samples have been analyzed, 474 of which tested negative and 13 positive.
According to the President, the Ministry of Health has taken all the measures to ensure comprehensive health care and permanent monitoring of those infected.
Also, the Council of Ministers has passed an urgency decree containing extraordinary prevention and response measures in order to reduce the spread of the virus within the national territory.
In his speech, Mr. Vizcarra postponed the beginning of the school year across the nation until March 30, as a measure to prevent the spread.
In addition to public institutions, the measure applies to private schools, whose classes have already begun.
In previous statements, the
Head of State called on Peruvians to stand together in order to face the coronavirus (COVID-19) cases confirmed in the South American country, urging them to follow the recommendations issued by the Ministry of Health to come out well from this situation.
As part of the measures taken by the Government, each minister was told to travel to one region in the country to talk to mayors, governors, and doctors, in order to join forces and face the coronavirus challenge together.
Moreover, a national report will be prepared after the ministers' return.
The National Health Institute is the only official entity authorized for the processing of samples in Peru.
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.
(END) RMCH/RMB/MVB
Published: 3/11/2020