LIMA, Jan 23 (NNN-ANDINA) — Airports, seaports, and land ports will be on alert to activate healthcare protocols rapidly in case symptoms of respiratory infection —related to the China coronavirus outbreak— are detected among travelers to Peru, Ministry of Health (Minsa) said.
After confirming that no coronavirus case has been reported in Peru, Minsa stated that the National Health Institute (INS) is prepared to implement a diagnosis with results delivered in real time, in light of the possibility that a case may be detected in the nation.
In a statement, the ministry noted that the level 3 biosafety National Reference Laboratory for Respiratory Viruses —attached to INS— is staffed by skilled professionals. Thus, it has all the necessary equipment and reagents to carry out these tests.
In addition, cutting-edge technology can be used to expand the research that provides new knowledge on the genetics of the microorganism and its microbiological characteristics.
INS Infectious Disease specialist Lely Solari said “we are waiting to receive the supplies for the diagnosis of the virus, through the support of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), which is the Americas’ regional office of the World Health Organization (WHO), and other channels.”
“We have already made arrangements to receive diagnostic tests in our National Reference Laboratory for Respiratory Viruses. We have both specialized personnel and the necessary equipment, as well as reagents to do these tests in our level 3 biosafety laboratory,” she added.
Solari stressed that the spread of the virus cannot be classified as a pandemic yet, because there is still so much to know about this type of coronavirus, such as its origins, evolution, and transmissibility level.
Minsa recommends that those planning to visit China on the occasion of the Lunar New Year celebrations 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. — NNN-ANDINA