Rapid Omicron spread may dampen recovery in Peru

Significance

Although there have been important advances in vaccinations over the last six months, large numbers remain under-vaccinated. The country continues to have one of the world’s highest death rates from COVID-19.

Impacts

• Vaccination will remain the main tool for reducing the impact of Omicron.
• Lack of tests will make it hard accurately to quantify the spread of the new variant.
• Inadequate health infrastructure, especially outside Lima, means that treating Omicron will prove problematic.