Panama health fair issues cards, reports 80% drop in dengue cases

A health card fair in San Miguelito, Panama, saw more than 250 participants this past weekend. The Ministry of Health (Minsa) organized the event at the Los Andes Basic Education Center to issue the essential white and green health cards.

Algis Torres, the regional health director for San Miguelito, explained that these fairs serve a dual purpose: facilitating access to health documentation and combating fraudulent schemes. Torres cautioned the public against scams, particularly those involving phone calls about health cards or business operating permits. He urged citizens to rely only on official Minsa-organized events or direct visits to health centers for these documents.

In addition to the health card initiative, Torres provided an update on the dengue situation in the district. San Miguelito currently reports 288 dengue cases, a stark contrast to the approximately 1,700 cases, including fatalities, recorded during the same period last year. This represents an 80% decrease in cases and, crucially, no reported deaths this year. Authorities have intensified fumigation efforts in areas like Los Andes.

The health authorities reiterated their appeal to residents to actively eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and maintain clean homes and surroundings. This collective effort is vital to prevent the further spread of dengue, especially as the district celebrates a significant reduction in infections and a year without fatalities.