The Ministry of Health (Minsa) has once again emphasized that the fight against dengue and other diseases is not only won in hospitals. According to the report for epidemiological week 48 (November 23-29, 2025), the country has accumulated 15,098 cases of dengue. Behind each number is a worried family, a child with a high fever, or an adult who couldn't go to work. But dengue is not the only enemy. In Panama, the fight against dengue and other diseases is won not just in the hospitals. It is won in the yards, in open tanks, in discarded bottles, and in the stagnant water that we often overlook. For this reason, the Ministry of Health (Minsa) made it clear again that eliminating mosquito breeding sites is the most effective measure to curb the disease. A case related to vaping in a young adult was also reported, a warning sign that cannot be ignored. Regarding severe acute respiratory infections, 422 cases were reported just that week, and the year's accumulated total is already at 19,348, filling hospital wards and putting pressure on the healthcare system. Other diseases continue to circulate in the country: Malaria: 10,569 accumulated cases and 4 deaths, all women. Leishmaniasis: 1,390 cases in 2025. Oropouche virus: 686 accumulated cases. Hantavirus: 27 cases in total. Leptospirosis: 86 cases. Human botfly: 111 cases. Monkeypox (Mpox): 16 confirmed cases to date. Faced with this panorama, Minsa insists on something simple but powerful: community participation saves lives. It's not just about fumigation, but about daily awareness. The recommendations are clear and don't cost millions: Eliminate mosquito breeding sites inside and outside the house. Wash your hands with soap and water or use alcohol gel. Use a mask if you have respiratory symptoms. Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Do not self-medicate and go to the nearest health center in time. The report also reveals that 97 deaths from influenza have been registered so far this year, and the most alarming thing is that 86.6% of the deceased were not vaccinated. In addition, more than 90% had risk factors, such as chronic diseases or advanced age. Of that total, 13,394 people presented mild symptoms, 1,601 showed alarming signs, and 103 cases were classified as severe dengue.
