Updates on public health, medical research, and healthcare services in Panama. Stories include policy changes, outbreaks, and practical health advice.
The Aquilino Tejeira Hospital could face another two-year delay, even as its exterior shows progress. Internal technical and operational work still needs to be completed before delivery.
Panama’s Health Ministry has launched a $72.4 million tender for a new hospital in Panama North that will serve patients from Panama and Colón. The project includes 100 beds, advanced imaging, intensive care, and a two-year construction phase.
Panama remains under vigilance after the first Sahara dust plume of the season arrived, affecting parts of the country through Sunday night. Officials warn of hazy skies and possible respiratory irritation in exposed areas.
Panama’s Health Ministry announced new May 2026 service days for white and green card processing and renewals. The cards remain an important requirement for food handlers across the country.
Panama has confirmed a second imported measles case in a traveler who entered through Tocumen Airport, following an earlier case in a Dutch citizen crossing from Costa Rica. The cases highlight the public health risks that come with international travel.
The Dr. Carlos N. Brin Polyclinic in San Francisco will partially suspend emergency services on May 9 for cleaning. The temporary change may affect patients seeking urgent care in Panama City.
Colón recorded its first dengue death of the year after a 60-year-old man died from the illness, according to the Ministry of Health. Authorities are urging residents to allow inspections and fumigation to help prevent more cases.
Panama confirmed an imported measles case in a 21-year-old Dutch traveler now under hospital monitoring. The country has not recorded local measles transmission since 1995.
Panama confirmed an imported measles case in an international traveler entering through Bocas del Toro and activated contact tracing, vaccination, and surveillance measures. Health officials say there is no evidence of community transmission.
Panama confirmed its first measles case in an international traveler, and health authorities activated contact-tracing protocols to contain possible exposure. The response aims to prevent the imported case from leading to further transmission.
Panama is under vigilance for a Sahara dust intrusion and high temperatures this weekend. The conditions could bring hazy skies, heat, and discomfort for outdoor activities.
A U.S.-supported medical campaign in Azuero is working with Hospital Doctor Gustavo Nelson Collado in Chitré to reduce the region’s surgical backlog through May 22. The effort highlights coordination between international support and Panama’s public health system.
Panama has confirmed its first imported measles case in a 21-year-old Dutch traveler who entered through Bocas del Toro after visiting several countries in the region. Health teams are tracing contacts, checking vaccinations and monitoring for any sign of local transmission.
Panama’s Health Ministry confirmed an imported measles case in a traveler who entered through Bocas del Toro after visiting several countries in the region. Officials activated surveillance and control measures and urged the public to keep vaccinations up to date.
Panama’s Ministry of Health has confirmed the country’s first imported measles case, increasing attention on vaccination and disease surveillance. Authorities are focusing on preventing any further spread.
Colón has reported its first dengue death as cases continue to rise. Panama’s Health Ministry is expanding fumigation and inspections across affected communities.
Panama’s civil protection system is monitoring Saharan dust affecting several provinces through May 10. Residents are being urged to take precautions, especially in vulnerable groups.
Panama’s Ministry of Social Development is pushing the Cuidarte program to serve 3,000 children in rural areas across several provinces and comarcas. The initiative targets communities in Veraguas, Bocas del Toro, Colón, Chiriquí, and indigenous regions including Ngäbe Buglé, Emberá and Guna Yala.
Panama is expanding home-based support for older adults as abandoned patients continue to expose pressure on public hospitals. The response includes medical visits, medicines, diapers, and nutritional supplements.
A Panama study found that PrEP remains highly effective against HIV but does not protect against other STIs such as syphilis and gonorrhea. Researchers say condom use, education and follow-up care remain essential.