Peru's Health Min: Second COVID-19 wave is a real risk

"The threat of a second wave is a real risk. During 2021, vaccination will be progressive. It will help us protect the most vulnerable citizens, but this obviously will not stop the transmission of the virus. There will always be someone who is vulnerable (and that is why we must continue to protect ourselves)," she indicated.

The high-ranking official commented that —at this moment— Peru is in a stage of low incidence, which is a great opportunity for citizens to prepare and organize themselves better "with the aim of protecting those who are the most vulnerable."

Likewise, the Cabinet member recalled that Peru has already gone through a powerful epidemic in ancient times, and it could happen again.

"In the last century, in 1918, our country, the whole country, was affected by influenza. Peru faced a second wave in 1919 and a third wave in 1920. It was a total of three years, and our country was severely affected. We have to be realistic and know that, although the country is in low incidence, this is the time that we have to prepare. We all have to continue taking care of ourselves," she concluded.

Remarks were made during her presentation before Congress' Special COVID-19 Commission.