After confirming the first Delta variant case in southern Arequipa region, the
recommends: avoiding crowds, reinforcing the use of face masks, hand washing, and social distancing.
"The vaccines have proven to be effective 21 days after the second dose; they protect us against serious illness above all. However, it is important not to lower our guard,"
INS head Dr. Victor Suarez emphasized.
Likewise, he mentioned that information on the Delta variant has been collected in the areas near the place where the case was detected —supported by the INS-CDC brigades sent to Arequipa region.
These teams are in charge of gathering clinical-epidemiological data, collecting samples, and conducting the subsequent genomic sequencing of the possible contacts linked to the first case.
Furthermore, the physician recommended increasing vaccination coverage in accordance with the provisions of the
National Vaccination Plan and especially ensuring that two vaccine doses are available.
He also encouraged people to redouble efforts to maintain the social bubble as a key self-care strategy to curb the transmission of the virus.
It means that each person must identify an inner circle, usually family members or people with whom they live, and commit to taking all possible measures every time they come into contact with other people outside their bubble.
Avoiding crowds, wearing face masks, and caring for the most vulnerable population are key measures.