Dengue Cases Surge in Panama

Panama is experiencing a significant increase in dengue fever cases. As of the sixth week of 2026, the country has recorded 637 accumulated cases. The Metropolitan Region leads the list with 155 cases, followed by Bocas del Toro (78), San Miguelito (76), Panama West (72), and Colón (62). Authorities also reported 74 hospitalized individuals and 2 deaths so far this year. Health officials have noted that young people remain the most affected group. The highest incidence is in the 15 to 19 age group, with 18.2 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The 25 to 34 and 35 to 49 age groups account for 111 and 113 cases respectively, representing 35% of the total. The Ministry of Health (Minsa) reminds the public not to self-medicate and to seek medical attention at the nearest health center at the first sign of alert. Symptoms of dengue include: fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and pain behind the eyes.