Public health authorities report suicide and malnutrition trends in Nariño and training in Monagas

Health authorities in Nariño, Colombia, reported 1,076 suicide attempts through the 36th epidemiological week of 2026. In the municipality of Túquerres, 41 attempts and two completed suicides were recorded. Epidemiological analysis identifies family difficulties, relationship breakdowns, mental health diagnoses, and substance abuse as primary contributing factors. Common methods include poisoning and injuries from sharp objects.

Additionally, Nariño has reported 524 cases of acute malnutrition in children under five, including 18 cases in the La Sabana subregion and 10 in Túquerres. Authorities noted that no deaths related to malnutrition have been recorded in the department so far in 2026.

In Monagas, Venezuela, the Ministry of People's Power for Health concluded a three-week community forum titled ‘Epidemiological Surveillance: Information for Action’. Held in Maturín, the event trained over 80 professionals in disease prevention, monitoring, and sanitary protocols to strengthen the national public health system's response to potential outbreaks.