We’ve been back in Iquitos almost a week now, and the situation is very serious. So many people are sick, and so many have died. The hospitals are full, and the morgue is full. Children are especially being hit, they get a stomach ache, and a fever and their parents give them aspirin. When they don’t get better, they take them to the doctor. The aspirin masks the dengue, so their test comes back “no dengue”. They go home thinking they don’t have it, and die. It is so sad.
The dengue has now spread to Lima. Folks who were in Iquitos and got dengue have traveled to Lima, with the disease, and mosquitos bite them there, and as a result those mosquitos now carry the disease, and they spread it to others. As a result, the government is considering closing off the city, not allowing anyone to come or go, by boat or plane, in an attempt to confine the dengue.
The government is not releasing any data on the situation here, they considered declaring a state of emergency for Iquitos, but decided against it. Tourism is a big business here, and they were afraid if word got out as to how bad this actually is, it would seriously affect the economy. They are going to be having another meeting this coming week, to once again consider closing off the city, and declaring a state of emergency. We pray they have God’s wisdom and act on it.
Thank you to those of you who have sent money for the purchase of mosquito nets, and medicine. We are working to help those who are sick, as well as prevent anyone else from getting sick. If you haven’t had an opportunity to help through your finances, we would ask you to prayerfully consider doing so. We need your help, the people here need your help. You may send your tax deductible donation to:
Adams Missionary Fund
COTR OKC
P.O. Box 720006
OKC OK 73172-0006
Please mark you check “Dengue Help”
We so thank you for your prayers and support during this difficult time for all of Iquitos!
Blessings,
Jerry, Connie & Kaitlyn