President Vizcarra: Coronavirus cases rise to 363 in Peru

12:51 | Lima, Mar. 22.

Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra reported 45 new coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the country Sunday, bringing the total number to 363.

The Peruvian leader disclosed that 6,184 samples have been taken so far, of which 5,821 turned negative.

According to the Head of State, the cases will keep going up and will continue at this pace for a long time, although the aim is not to exceed the number of cases that the public health system can handle.

"Of the 363 patients who tested positive for COVID-19, 31 are hospitalized and five (5) are in intensive care units; the region with the most confirmed cases is Lima: 278," Mr. Vizcarra told the nation in a televised message.

The region whose cases have increased significantly is Piura, with 19, and this is precisely the area where the mandatory social isolation was not properly implemented, the statesman said.


The top official reported that there are 8 confirmed cases in Lambayeque, 5 in La Libertad, 4 in Ancash, 6 in Callao, 16 in Loreto, 4 in Huanuco, 10 in Junin, 1 in Madre de Dios, 4 in Cusco, 7 in Arequipa, and 1 in Ica.

Sunday marks the seventh day of mandatory social isolation decreed by the Government.

(END) FHG/RMB

Published: 3/22/2020