Chiriquí health authorities urge stronger precautions as respiratory illnesses rise

Health authorities in Panama’s Chiriquí province are urging residents to reinforce basic precautions as respiratory illnesses increase, especially among children and older adults visiting medical units and emergency services.

Santiago de Roux, the province’s director of health, said the pattern occurs annually but warned that prevention remains important to limit transmission and avoid placing additional pressure on health services. He recommended frequent handwashing, wearing masks and seeking medical attention when respiratory symptoms persist or recur.

People with cold symptoms should avoid crowds and close contact with others, authorities said. “Our main concern is that people attend health units, receive care and maintain these biosecurity measures to prevent a stronger spread of these respiratory illnesses,” De Roux said.

Officials also confirmed cases of respiratory syncytial virus in children in the province, although De Roux said they made up a smaller proportion of the illnesses recorded. Health authorities said handwashing and masks can help reduce the incidence of these viruses and prevent emergency units from becoming overwhelmed. They urged particular caution among vulnerable groups and recommended medical attention when symptoms worsen or persist.

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Our main concern is that people attend health units, receive care and maintain these biosecurity measures to prevent a stronger spread of these respiratory illnesses.