Panama Records 19 deaths from Influenza this Year and Remains on Alert
Panama has recorded 19 deaths from influenza so far in 2026, after four new cases were confirmed during epidemiological week 4 (January 25-31, 2026). Health authorities continue to urge the public to reinforce self-care measures as a key preventative action.
According to the weekly epidemiological report released this Saturday by the Ministry of Health of Panama (Minsa), “of the 19 deaths, 89.5% (17) did not have the influenza vaccine. And 73.7% (14) had risk factors including age, metabolic, cardiovascular and renal conditions.”
The official report indicates that, so far in 2026, all deaths recorded are due solely to influenza. However, the health authorities’ report also includes data on the incidence of other viral diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, malaria, and screwworm, among others.
Health authorities had already warned on January 20 about “a significant increase in influenza-related deaths” during the first epidemiological week of the year. Therefore, they reiterated their call for the public to comply with preventive measures, including vaccination , against this respiratory viral disease.
“Panama is on the verge of alert due to a significant increase in deaths associated with influenza.” This was stated by Catherine Castillo, an Epidemiological Surveillance Technician at the Ministry of Health, according to a statement released on January 20.
Castillo explained that, in addition to influenza, other respiratory viruses are circulating in the country, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), metapneumovirus, rhinovirus, and COVID-19. “This increases the risk of complications, especially in older adults, young children, and people with comorbidities.”
During 2025, a total of 116 people died in Panama from influenza , of whom 85.3% (99) had not been vaccinated against the disease. And 92.2% (107) had risk factors, including advanced age and metabolic, cardiovascular, neurological, respiratory, and immunosuppressive diseases. This is according to official statistics from the Ministry of Health.
Last January, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) recommended that countries in the Americas remain vigilant and strengthen the preparedness of health services in the face of the simultaneous circulation of seasonal influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which could generate greater pressure on hospitals and health centers during the remainder of the winter season in the northern hemisphere.
