Andina

Peru: State of health emergency declared in five regions due to Guillain-Barre Syndrome

13:38 | Lima, Jun. 10.

The Peruvian Government —through the Health Ministry (Minsa)— has declared a state of health emergency for 90 days in Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad, Junin, and Lima regions due to the unusual increase of Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) cases.

The measure will strengthen the conditions to guarantee the adequate coverage of health services —to the people who have been diagnosed— and speed up the purchase of medications that ensure medical attention service provision. 

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an uncommon nervous system disorder, in which the body's immune system attacks the neurons and weakens the muscles. Sometimes it causes paralysis. 

It should be noted its exact cause is not known. 

According to a Supreme Decree, the National Neurological Science Institute informed that the current GBS cases present unusual and atypical characteristics that require immediate treatment. 

Action Plan

Likewise, the document points out Minsa and the National Health Institute (INS) must —within their competences— carry out the immediate actions developed in the "Action Plan-Declaration of health emergency due to the increase of Guillain-Barre syndrome in Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad, Junin, and Lima regions."

The Supreme Decree was signed by President Martin Vizcarra and Health Minister Zulema Tomas. 

(END) JOT/DTK/MVB

Published: 6/10/2019