Flu death toll climbs to 27, with 1,177 sick

FOUR MORE deaths attributed  by health authorities  to the H1N1 influenza virus, bringing the number of fatalities in Panama to 27.

The news follows confirmation from officials that 175,355 people were vaccinated over the weekend  as health  clinics remained open across the country and 500 staff were on hand to administer shots to anxious people, some of whom had lined up through Saturdat night

According to the officials, the total number of cases of acute respiratory infections has  increased to 1,177. Some  355 people remained hospitalized on Monday June 20.

People considered to be vulnerable, including children under five and adults over 60, pregnant women and patients with chronic diseases are given priority in receiving vaccines.

The government has announced  plans to purchase 1 million additional doses.