Health authorities in Peru have intensified efforts to prevent and control pertussis in the province of Datem del Marañón, located in the Loreto region of the Amazon. The Ministry of Health (Minsa) announced the implementation of new cold-chain technology to ensure that high-quality vaccines reach the country’s most remote Indigenous communities.
New Cold-Chain Devices Aim to Protect the Most Vulnerable
With support from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Government of Canada, Minsa has received four ARKTEK units — highly insulated systems engineered to maintain stable temperatures for up to 30 days without electrical power.
These devices are designed to preserve the efficacy of biological products during long journeys across difficult terrain, a persistent challenge in the Peruvian Amazon due to geographical isolation.
Additionally, PAHO supplied 10 Eclipse vaccine carriers to support mobile vaccination teams operating in the region.
Improving Vaccine Delivery to Hard-to-Reach Areas
The introduction of the ARKTEK equipment is expected to extend the operational range of vaccination brigades, enabling them to reach remote areas such as Santa María, Siwin, PS II Uwijint and Chuintar, all of which are part of the Datem del Marañón Health Network.
According to Minsa, hundreds of families will benefit from improved access to routine immunisation, particularly young children and other vulnerable groups.
Magdalena Quepuy, Executive Director of the Immunisation Directorate, emphasised that this technology represents a major step towards equitable health access: “Ensuring that even the most remote communities receive safe and timely vaccines is a central commitment under the leadership of Minister Luis Quiroz.”
Training and Oversight to Ensure Safe Vaccine Handling
Minsa has begun supervising the installation of the new equipment while providing specialised training for healthcare workers responsible for maintaining cold-chain standards.
These capacity-building efforts include proper handling of temperature-sensitive biological products, monitoring of refrigeration conditions, and the continuation of epidemiological surveillance in the province.
Commitment to Public Health and Immunisation
The Peruvian Ministry of Health reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening national immunisation programmes and protecting communities against vaccine-preventable diseases.
By deploying advanced technology and reinforcing the skills of frontline personnel, Peru aims to reduce infection risks and ensure that every family — regardless of location — has access to life-saving vaccines.