Panama, April 13, 2026. - The Ministry of Health (Minsa) informs the public that, as a preventive measure, buildings 261 and 265 were evacuated for safety reasons due to a situation requiring verification. The evacuation was carried out following established protocols, with the aim of safeguarding the integrity of officials and users present in the facilities. The Minister of Health, Fernando Boyd Galindo, indicated that after the inspection carried out by units of the Honorable Fire Corps of Panama, it was determined that the area is safe, ruling out risks that could compromise the safety of personnel or the public. The head of Health stressed that these buildings, over 100 years old, require comprehensive maintenance, so the corresponding funds have already been requested for their intervention. He also reiterated that no patients were affected, as these structures house only administrative offices. Meanwhile, Karen Holder, director of the Minsa Risk Management Office, explained that the Fire Corps attended the site with specialized equipment to detect possible gas leaks; however, no presence or contamination by this type of substance was identified. She added that the investigation into the origin of a strange gas-like odor reported in the area will continue. Minsa reiterates its commitment to the protection and well-being of the population, highlighting the importance of acting prudently in any eventuality. The institution thanks the cooperation and understanding of all during the development of this preventive action, after which nearly 400 officials were able to return to their daily duties once the inspection was concluded.
