Panama has recorded 19 deaths from influenza so far in 2026, after confirming four new fatalities during epidemiological week 4 (January 25-31), while authorities maintain the call to reinforce self-care and prevention measures. According to the weekly epidemiological report from Panama's Ministry of Health (Minsa), of the total deaths, 89.5% (17) were not vaccinated against influenza and 73.7% (14) had risk factors, including advanced age, metabolic, cardiovascular, and kidney diseases. The official report specifies that so far this year, all deaths correspond to influenza, although other viral diseases such as dengue, zika, chikungunya, malaria, and others are also being monitored. Health authorities had already warned on January 20 about a significant increase in deaths associated with influenza and reiterated the call to comply with preventive measures, especially vaccination against this respiratory disease. "Panama is at an alert threshold due to a significant increase in deaths associated with influenza," stated Catherine Castillo, an Epidemiological Surveillance technician at Minsa, in an official press release. Castillo explained that in addition to influenza, other respiratory viruses are circulating, such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), metapneumovirus, rhinovirus, and COVID-19, which increases the risk of complications, especially in older adults, young children, and people with comorbidities. During 2025, 116 people died in Panama from influenza; of them, 85.3% (99) were not vaccinated and 92.2% (107) had risk factors, according to official Minsa statistics. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) recommended in January that countries in the region reinforce surveillance and the preparation of health services in the face of the simultaneous circulation of seasonal influenza and RSV, which could pressure hospitals and health centers for the remainder of the winter season.
