BRIEFS. Health

Second hanta virus death reported

la prensa

examination: Scientists will conduct tests to determine if the hanta virus has claimed a second victim. 1134642

Health officials are reporting a second death caused by the hanta virus in the district of Pocrí, in the province of Los Santos.

The 34-year-old patient, whose name was not released, died Saturday in Joaquín Pablo Franco Sayas Hospital.

Regional Health Director Duylio Taylor said that officials with the Gorgas Memorial Laboratory will conduct tests to confirm that the death was caused by the virus, which is spread by rats.

Taylor explained that the patient arrived at the hospital on Dec. 8 suffering from a fever and respiratory discomfort. Despite their best efforts, doctors were not able to save the patient, who was the second person from that area to die of the disease this year. Three other people have become seriously ill.

Health officials plan to begin a campaign to promote the better storage of corn and rice harvests by farmers in the region, as well as better sanitary practices by homeowners.

“We need people who understand that they must maintain a clean home, to keep rodents away,” Taylor said.