No New Influenza Variant Detected in Panama

The Ministry of Health (Minsa) of Panama reported on Tuesday that no cases of the new influenza A(H3N2) subtype K, circulating in Europe and the Americas, have been reported in the country. Head of the Minsa Epidemiology Department, Blas Armién, stated that 1,280,982 doses of the influenza vaccine have been administered in Panama, which has led to a decrease in hospitalizations, severity, and deaths. Armién emphasized that to date, Minsa has reported 97 deaths from influenza, 85% of whom had not been vaccinated and 90% had health complications. Director of Public Health of Minsa, Yelkys Gil, clarified that this new variant is more contagious, however, its severity and lethality are not high, so the population is urged to go to health centers to get vaccinated against influenza. The institution also indicated that the influenza vaccine is available in all health centers and polyclinics in the Metropolitan Region, San Miguelito, North Panama, Colón, and Coclé. Minsa calls on the population that if they present symptoms of respiratory diseases, they should go to the nearest health establishment, reinforce self-care, and protect vulnerable people. Nevertheless, the entity calls on the population to continue using respiratory masks to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses circulating in the country. Minsa recommends the population: not to self-medicate, to go to health centers in a timely manner, to wear a mask, to avoid crowds, and to cover the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. Two weeks ago, the General Directorate of Public Health issued a circular addressed to all regional directors and health facilities, urging them to remain vigilant, strengthen early diagnosis, and ensure the timely identification of warning signs in patients. Additionally, it recommends washing hands with soap and water or using alcohol gel and staying hydrated with water.