DELHI
In view of the presence of the first imported case of the Zika virus in Peru, the Ministries of Health (MINSA) and Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR) have issued an advisory saying that areas at an altitude of over 2,500 metres above sea level are free from the presence of the Zika-carrying mosquito, and consequently all tourist activities in these areas will proceed as normal.
“Peru is prepared to deal with the threat of this virus and its authorities have strengthened their prevention, control and monitoring measures as a result of the appearance of the only imported case identified to date,” the statement said. There is no native transmission of the Zika virus in Peru.
“MINSA and MINCETUR are working with the private companies in the tourism sector to roll out a schedule of fumigation for hotels, restaurants and other tourist establishments in the North and the Amazon areas of Peru as a preventive measure,” the advisory reads.
In the interests of the normal operation of the tourism sector and the peace of mind of national and foreign tourists and tour operators in general, the authorities of both ministries have been working together to provide accurate, timely and ongoing information on the actions being carried out nationwide to prevent the propagation of Zika in Peru, said a release.
Musafir Namah Bureau
