Panama: 58 influenza deaths this year, none vaccinated

Panama has registered 58 deaths attributed to influenza in 2026, with a stark statistic emerging: none of the individuals who died had been vaccinated against the disease during the current season. This data, part of the epidemiological report for week 28 (July 12-18), highlights a critical gap in preventative healthcare.

The report indicates that 56.9% of the deceased were men, and the most affected age group was those 65 and older, accounting for 60.3% of the fatalities. Children under one year old also represented a notable percentage, with 11.1% of the deaths.

Significantly, 100% of those who died from influenza lacked the current season's vaccine, and 82% were also unvaccinated against the 2025 season. Furthermore, 82% of the deceased had pre-existing risk factors, primarily advanced age and metabolic, cardiovascular, or renal conditions.

These figures underscore the importance of influenza vaccination, particularly for vulnerable populations. The Ministry of Health (Minsa) also noted a substantial circulation of other respiratory illnesses, with 811 cases of flu-like illness reported in week 28, bringing the year's total to 24,372. Severe acute respiratory infections (IRAG) saw 498 cases in the same week, totaling 10,619 for the year.

Health authorities are reiterating their call for continued adherence to preventive measures and for individuals, especially those at higher risk, to get vaccinated against influenza.