Colombian Coronavirus Cases Triple Overnight, Now In 3 Cities. New Victims Returned From Spain

After the first case of coronavirus COVID-19 was diagnosed on Colombian territory in a student who had returned to Bogotá from Milan, Italy, two more cases have been diagnosed in passengers returning from Spain. The additional cases were diagnosed in Medellín and Buga, a small city near Cali. Both patients have been quarantined.

The Colombian government is offering the free “CoronApp Colombia” for download on Android devices, and toll free information lines (within Colombia): 01-800 095-5590 or for Bogotá: 330 5041. International callers may dial +57 1 330-5041

The 34 year old man from Buga and the 50 year old woman from Medellín presented symptoms and sought health attention, where they were tested positive for the infection. Both patients are said to be in stable condition and epidemiological protocols have been established to contact and test those who may have come into contact with the patients.

Virus arrival coincides with new health minister appointment

The day before the health ministry confirmed the virus in Colombia, President Ivan Duque (above, left) swore in a new health minister after the previous official resigned in December. The new health minister, Dr. Fernando Ruíz Gomez (above, right) is a medical doctor and also holds a masters degree in economics, and one in public health, as well as a doctorate in public health.

Dr. Ruíz was vice minister of public health and social protection in Colombia from 2013 to 2016 during the Santos administration, and also served as regional health director for Bogotá.