Peru issues epidemiological alert due to leptospirosis outbreak with more than 1,000 cases

Lima.- The Peruvian Ministry of Health issued an epidemiological alert this Friday due to the increased risk of leptospirosis, associated with heavy rains in different regions of the Andean country, which has already left five fatalities and more than 1,000 cases. The epidemiological alert, announced by the National Center for Epidemiology, Prevention and Disease Control, has a scope of intervention in the 24 departments of the country and was issued to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, detection, treatment of cases and health response in all public and private establishments. Through this measure, epidemiological surveillance and investigation actions will be strengthened, the immediate notification of probable and confirmed cases will be established, the technical and monitoring standard for processing samples for leptospirosis will be established, which should not exceed 24 hours from its reception. It also includes performing molecular diagnoses using the PCR technique, through the National Reference Laboratory for Metaxenic and Bacterial Zoonoses. In addition, it will provide technical assistance for the organization and operation of health services under referral and counter-referral flow maps, strengthen the capacities of health professionals, and ensure timely monitoring and care of patients with leptospirosis.

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On the other hand, it will also promote the monitoring of drinking water quality, with emphasis on water disinfection both in service providers and at the household level, and will implement information campaigns. The Ministry of Health reported that as of the current epidemiological week, it has registered 1,045 cases and 5 deaths (3 confirmed and 2 under investigation) belonging to the regions of Piura, San Martín, Tumbes and Junín, all in central and northern Peru and affected in recent weeks by floods resulting from heavy rains. Leptospirosis is a silent disease caused by bacteria, which can enter the body through a small wound or even through healthy skin if in contact with contaminated water. Therefore, authorities recommend avoiding contact with stagnant or contaminated waters, using appropriate protection in flooded areas, maintaining proper hygiene, and going to the nearest health facility if symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, or general malaise appear.