The Ministry of Health (Minsa) of Panama reports that no new deaths from influenza or COVID-19 were registered during epidemiological week 48. So far this year, 97 deaths from influenza and 47 from COVID-19 have accumulated. The situation indicates active co-circulation of respiratory viruses, especially influenza A and RSV. Therefore, Minsa recommends that the population go to health centers to get vaccinated against influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), especially for priority groups, and to ensure booster shots against COVID-19 for at-risk populations. If symptoms of respiratory illnesses appear, people should go to the nearest health establishment, reinforce self-care, and protect vulnerable individuals. According to Minsa, in the Caribbean and Central America, the A(H1N1)pdm09 subtype prevails, while in North America, A(H3N2) is predominant. It is highlighted that Panama currently has no reports of the A(H3N2) K subtype circulating in the United Kingdom, which is potentially associated with greater severity in older adults. Severity indicators show no significant increase.
