AH1N1 Pandemic
Threatens Romeria To Cartago
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2 Million Are Expected To Make Pilgrimage To
Cartago
In a little over two weeks, hundreds of
thousands will be making their way to the
Basílica de los Ángeles, in Cartago, for the
annual romeria (pilgrimage) to visit la "Virgencita".
However, this year, health officials are
concerned of the high risk of the spread of
the AH1N1 flu virus that has already claimed
seven lives in Costa Rica.
The Virgen de los Ángeles or "La Negrita" as
she is often referred to is believed to hold
powers to perform miracles and people from
all over Costa Rica and including from other
countries, converge on Cartago on August 2
to pay homage to the Virgen, to ask for help
or thank her for the miracle bestowed.
Faithful Catholics traditionally walk to
Cartago, some from far away places like
Guanacaste, while others take their cars or
buses, and some even fly in just for the
occasion, and then on their knees the last
metres to statude of the "black virgin".
The ministra de Salud, María Luisa Ávila, is
concerned that the romeria could make the
current health situation worse, saying that
the walk may be called off entirely if the
number of cases and deaths of AH1N1
continues to grow.
"I have visited the Basilica and the
measures they have taken are satisfactory.
However, if the severity of the virus
increases, we will have issue new
recommendations", said Ávila.
Salud and church officials are asking anyone
who is feeling ill not to attend the
pilgrimage.
Jorge Eddy Solórzano, a Catholic priest in
Cartago, said that there will be plenty of
soap and water at the Basilica and hygiene
standards will be strict at the temple.
Solórzano added that the 400 voluntary
guides around the Basilica will be wearing
gloves and masks.
Ministra Ávila added that her officials will
be very strict on vendors and sodas (small
restaurants) catering to the walk and in
addition to adhering to normal health
standards, Salud officials will focus on
ensuring that soap, water and towels are
handy for all customers.
The ministra said that her officials will
make sure that health standards are complied
to the letter of the law.
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