Mexico: Death toll from COVID-19 surpasses 35,000 July 12 /update 19

Event

The death toll in Mexico from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) increased to 35,006 on Sunday, July 12, making it the world's fourth-highest death total, above Italy. On Sunday, 276 additional fatalities and 4482 new infections were recorded in Mexico bringing its total to 35,006 fatalities with 299,750 confirmed cases. Mexico City remains the most affected area of the country with 53,423 confirmed cases.

The country started easing restrictions previously imposed in June in efforts to revive the country's economy. Businesses and metro services reopened as of June 29 in Mexico City. Around a million face masks were handed out to metro passengers in an attempt to lower infection rates. Additionally, from June 30, Mexico City's historic center has reopened and, as of July 1, hotels and restaurants have been permitted to resume operations at a 50 percent capacity.

Land border restrictions with the US remain extended through July 21. The measures limit border crossings to those who are entering for essential work, including healthcare professionals, and those working in cargo and trade. Commercial flights are operating to and from Mexico.

Further international spread of the virus is to be expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

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

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.