The Department of Health confirmed two new suspected cases of coronavirus (Covid-19) on the Island, which increased the total number of possible infections to (4).
The Secretary of Health, Rafael Rodríguez Mercado, reported that one of the tests was performed on a cancer patient resident in Puerto Rico.
The fourth test was administered to an American citizen residing in California, who was transported in a Coast Guard helicopter to the Mayagüez Medical Center hospital.
Regarding the suspicious case of the Italian woman coming from a cruise ship and staying in isolation in a hospital in the capital, the official explained that, at the moment, the husband has not presented any symptoms.
“Again, we urge citizens to remain calm. It is important that we all take an active role in preventive measures to help prevent the spread of diseases, such as frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, ”said Rodríguez Mercado.
On the other hand, Rodríguez Mercado reported that the new guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now allow Covid-19 tests, even if the person has no travel history.
The secretary also indicated that the new guide has already been sent to all doctors, through the College of Surgeons of Puerto Rico and the Hospital Association.
He also stressed that the new guide states that when a patient arrives in the emergency room, the doctor will assess whether the person has a fever, dry cough and respiratory distress. Then, at your discretion, you will determine the performance of at least one test, which could be influenza or any other communicable respiratory disease.
In the event that the results of such tests are negative and the patient shows a picture of watery respiratory disease that requires hospitalization, the regional epidemiologist will be contacted to have the Covid-19 test performed even if the person Do not have a travel history.
