The Ministry of Health announced on Mar. 19 that it is implementing rapid actions in the Tumbes region following a rise in suspected leptospirosis cases and related deaths. Leonardo Rojas Mezarina, Vice Minister of Public Health, said there have been 93 suspected cases of leptospirosis with two fatalities, as well as 475 reported dengue cases according to the Regional Health Directorate (Diresa) of Tumbes.
Rojas Mezarina said recent rainfall has contributed to an increase in these diseases, prompting intensified health response measures. He stated, “We have arrived with the technical team from the Ministry of Health; we are here together with local authorities to define commitments to reduce and improve epidemiological conditions.”
The Ministry of Health is working with Diresa and the Regional Government of Tumbes to review medication stocks and optimize clinical management for patients in order to prevent further complications or deaths. Local governments have also committed to addressing key risk factors such as solid waste accumulation and stagnant water, which can contribute to disease outbreaks.
Rojas Mezarina warned that compliance with these agreements will be closely monitored: “There will be follow-up and authorities who do not fulfill this commitment would have to face intervention by the crime prevention prosecutor’s office because we are dealing with a public health issue that threatens life and health.”
He also urged residents not to wait for symptoms to worsen but instead seek immediate care at the nearest health facility if any warning signs appear.
