First case of new flu strain reported; Encuentro Prison remains unfinished; Noboa takes 18-day vacation

The Health Ministry reports Ecuador’s first case of the new flu variant A(H3N2) K, also known as the “super flu.” A ministry spokesman said the case was identified in a “southern province” but did not specify the exact location.

The ministry said it expects the case to be the “first of many” and cautions that the new variant is only slightly more severe than previous strains. “We do not anticipate an epidemic situation from A H3N2 but we urge the population to take precautions to protect themselves and others,” a spokesman said. “We continue to maintain active epidemiological surveillance and permanent monitoring of respiratory viruses at the national level.”

The Health Ministry is urging the public to take normal precautions after the first case of a new flu variant is reported in the country.

He added that the infected patient, who is being treated at home, is under a doctor’s supervision and is following the protocols established for this type of respiratory infection.

The current flu vaccine does not prevent the A(H3N2) K flu strain, which has become dominant in North America and Europe, but doctors say it is effective in treating symptoms.

Encuentro Prison construction remains unfinished
According to a team of journalists, the new Enceuntro Prison in Santa Elena Province is still under construction, contrary to government claims that work is complete. Satellite photos examined by Primicias reporters reveal unfinished structures, unpaved roads and heavy construction equipment still on site at the prison.

The government has prevented journalists and human rights groups from visiting the prison and banned overflights by drones and small aircraft. “The state has imposed total land and air restrictions on the prison location, so the only method we have of verifying the state of construction is through review of satellite images,” said a Primicias staff member. “We believe the government’s policy of secrecy is a violation of the public’s right to accurate information. In this case, because of the satellite pictures, we know the government is not telling the truth.”

Last week, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Roberto Luque reported that the “Enceuntro project is totally complete.” Earlier, Interior Minister Reimberg released a nighttime drone photo of the prison showing all modules lighted but declined to provide a daytime photos.

Noboa takes 18-day leave of absence
The National Assembly on Friday narrowly approved President Daniel Noboa request for a leave of absence from January 1 to January 18. The request was supported by Noboa’s the National Democratic Action (ADN) party and allies but opposed by the Citizen Revolution bloc and its supporters.

The president requested the leave based on “personal matters.” During Noboa’s absence. presidential functions will be carried out by Vice President María José Pinto.

Members of Citizen Revolution claimed the 18-day leave was excessive and that Noboa has been “absent from the country more than he has been in the country” since the May election. “I guess he’s going home again to Miami,” said Correista Assemblywoman Germania Romero.