Salto Departmental Board Expresses Solidarity with Scientist Gonzalo Moratorio, Citing His Crucial Pandemic Work

The Departmental Board of Salto has publicly declared its unwavering support for Dr. Gonzalo Moratorio, a distinguished Uruguayan scientist currently facing a grave health crisis. Dr. Moratorio, a virologist affiliated with the University of the Republic and the Pasteur Institute, is battling an aggressive brain tumor. His situation has become a focal point for the local government, which has issued a statement acknowledging his vital work, particularly his role in developing Uruguay's first COVID-19 diagnostic test in 2020.

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Moratorio is virólogo, trabaja en la Universidad de la República y en el Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, tiene solo 41 años de edad. Es un hombre que eligió hacer ciencia en Uruguay, investigar con recursos limitados y vocación sin límites, que entiende el conocimiento como progreso de la humanidad

This initiative by the Salto board highlights a deeply felt local appreciation for scientific endeavor, especially when pursued under challenging circumstances. The board emphasized Moratorio's commitment to advancing science in Uruguay despite limited resources, framing his work as a contribution to humanity's progress. They specifically recalled how his diagnostic test technology was crucial in bolstering the country's response to the pandemic, enabling regional hospitals to test for the virus and reducing reliance on the capital, Montevideo.

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cuando Uruguay no tenía kits propios para detectar el COVID- 19, integró el equipo científico que desarrolló el primer test de diagnóstico uruguayo. Un test fabricado acá, con capacidad local, en tiempo récord y que esa tecnología viajó al interior del país, a sus hospitales públicos, a los prestadores de salud, a los laboratorios que en los peores momentos de la pandemia, permitieron que el interior pudiera testear sin depender exclusivamente de Montevideo

The board's statement underscores the urgency of Moratorio's situation, noting his multiple surgeries and ongoing treatment. It also acknowledges his difficult decision to seek legal recourse to obtain essential, high-cost medication. While refraining from commenting on the legal specifics, the board affirmed its ability to offer recognition and accompaniment to the scientist during this critical period. This action reflects a community rallying behind one of its own, celebrating his past achievements while advocating for his present needs.

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Moratorio hoy enfrenta un tumor cerebral de pronóstico grave. Ha sido operado varias veces y continúa en tratamiento. Se ha visto obligado a iniciar acciones judiciales para acceder a un medicamento que su equipo médico considera necesario para sobrevivir. Sin ese fármaco, los médicos advierten que el tiempo se acorta. No nos corresponde a nosotros pronunciarnos sobre el detalle jurídico del caso, eso le pertenece a la Justicia y a las autoridades sanitarias