Influenza leaves 11 deaths in Puerto Rico during Christmas

During Christmas week, Puerto Rico recorded 11 deaths related to influenza, as confirmed this Wednesday by the Secretary of Health, Víctor Ramos. The figure reflects the continuity of the virus’s circulation on the island, although the authorities assure that the levels remain within expectations.

Ramos highlighted, during an interview with Pegao’s in the Morning, the importance of the population getting vaccinated and adopting preventive measures, such as hand washing and distancing in crowded places, to interrupt the chains of contagion.

He also pointed out that some deaths are still under investigation, and that cases are adjusted as the relationship with the disease is confirmed. The secretary recalled that to declare an epidemic outbreak, cases must remain above the epidemiological threshold for six consecutive weeks.

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Although the island has surpassed this threshold for several recent weeks, so far no accelerated increase has been recorded that suggests an uncontrolled outbreak.

Authorities reiterate the call for vaccination, especially for the elderly, children, and those with chronic conditions, groups more vulnerable to serious complications from influenza.