Panama health ministry warns of rising hospitalizations from respiratory viruses

Panama's Ministry of Health (Minsa) is urging the public to increase vigilance for children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses as hospitalizations linked to respiratory viruses rise nationwide. Health authorities anticipate a surge in the circulation of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) over the next two weeks, based on current epidemiological data.

Katherine Castillo, an epidemiological surveillance technician at Minsa, reported a significant increase in hospitalizations for bronchiolitis, primarily affecting children under two years old. She noted that the influenza virus has shown a positivity rate above 30% this week, with RSV at approximately 23%. These figures highlight a concerning trend in respiratory illness prevalence.

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We can share with you that since last week hospitalizations have increased regarding bronchiolitis and the most affected are children under two years old and the influenza virus has had a positivity percentage this week above 30%, this is important and likewise the respiratory syncytial virus which reports about 23% positivity.

Children under five, adults over 60, and patients with chronic conditions are identified as the most vulnerable populations at higher risk of requiring hospitalization. Castillo emphasized that the primary goal of influenza and RSV vaccines is to prevent severe outcomes, including hospitalizations and deaths, even if infection still occurs.

To combat this rise, Minsa recommends completing vaccination schedules, as vaccines are crucial in preventing serious complications from these respiratory diseases. While no deaths from influenza were reported in the 25th epidemiological week (June 21-27), 54 deaths related to the disease have been recorded in 2026. Notably, none of the deceased individuals had received their influenza vaccine for the year. Authorities are reiterating their call for people to visit health centers for vaccinations and to maintain preventive measures, particularly in households with high-risk individuals.

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The main objective of the influenza and respiratory syncytial vaccine is to avoid hospitalizations and avoid deaths in the population. We know that some people can get the disease, however, it will prevent them from being hospitalized.