The Peruvian government announced on Apr. 16 several new health initiatives, including the introduction of a vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus and plans to modernize hospitals, during a presentation by Prime Minister Luis Arroyo before Congress.
These measures are part of a broader effort to prevent diseases, strengthen hospital care, and expand access to quality medical services. The government said that starting in May 2026, Peru will implement for the first time a vaccination program against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which is the main cause of hospitalization and death among children under one year old. This initiative will prioritize regions such as Arequipa, Cusco, Lima, and the Constitutional Province of Callao with an investment of S/91 million.
“The measure will reduce hospitalizations, protect newborns and ease the economic burden on thousands of families facing serious respiratory illnesses,” said Arroyo.
Arroyo also said that throughout May the national campaign against human papillomavirus (HPV) would continue with informational activities and free vaccinations at schools and health centers. “In this country thirteen women are diagnosed daily with cervical cancer and seven die from this disease; about 4,500 cases are registered each year,” he said.
He further stated there is sufficient availability of vaccines for children and adolescents aged nine to eighteen across Peru as part of efforts to reinforce prevention and early detection as key tools for saving lives.
In terms of hospital improvements, Arroyo announced that operation and maintenance will soon begin at Villa El Salvador Emergency Hospital through a public-private partnership model promoted by ProInversión. This project aims to benefit more than 750,000 people in southern Lima. Additionally, the new Huarmey Hospital will be inaugurated under a Works for Taxes scheme in partnership with Antamina mining company—an investment exceeding S/227 million—to serve over 33,000 citizens.
Arroyo also highlighted approval of the National Policy for Indigenous or Original Peoples toward 2040—a roadmap incorporating intercultural approaches designed to bring culturally relevant public services closer to these communities.
Through these steps led by Health Minister Juan Carlos Velasco Guerrero at the Ministry of Health, officials say they remain committed to preventive public health focused on protecting lives while closing historic gaps in medical care.
