Peru: Rise in pneumonia and flu cases reported

Event

According to Peru's health authorities, 30,733 cases of pneumonia have been registered between January and June 2018 (highest figure in the last five years). State authorities have announced the distribution of more than 100,000 outerwear to alleviate the situation and has launched a vaccination campaign. Poverty, the lack of thermal comfort, and malnutrition have reportedly been the main factors facilitating the spread of the outbreak.

Context

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus or the flu is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Individuals are advised to take preventive measures to minimize the risk of contracting or spreading the disease (e.g. wash hands thoroughly and frequently, avoid contact with sick individuals, etc.) and consult a medical professional regarding vaccination options.