The Ministry of Health (Minsa) in Panama issued a nationwide epidemiological alert on Friday, December 12, 2025. The action follows a formal report from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) warning of increased influenza activity across the northern hemisphere as the 2025–2026 season begins.
While a specific variant circulating in the United Kingdom has not been detected locally, health authorities are concerned about the co-circulation of multiple respiratory viruses within Panama. Current surveillance data shows influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) positivity rates are already above seasonal alert thresholds.
Officials emphasized the alert is a preventive measure. “Although no cases of the A(H3N2) subtype K variant have been reported in Panama, our epidemiological surveillance indicates that respiratory viruses remain active in the country,” the Ministry of Health stated. [Translated from Spanish] The specific Influenza A virus subtype H3N2 lineage causing concern abroad is known to potentially cause more severe illness in older adults.
The immediate impact involves heightened monitoring at hospitals and clinics nationwide. Health centers are preparing for a potential increase in patients presenting with severe respiratory symptoms in the coming weeks.
Current Surveillance Data Shows Mixed Trends
Minsa’s latest figures reveal a complex viral landscape. The rate of influenza-like illness sits below the seasonal threshold at 21.6 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Pneumonia and bronchopneumonia rates are also low. However, laboratory testing tells a different story for virus circulation.
Influenza positivity has reached 32.6%, which is above the alert threshold. RSV positivity is at 24%, also above its seasonal level. In contrast, SARS-CoV-2 detection remains very low at 0.4%. The bronchiolitis rate, often driven by RSV in young children, is currently at 11.0 per 100,000. This figure remains above the threshold but is showing a declining trend.
A key point of cautious optimism comes from severity indicators. The ministry confirmed that indicators of severe disease have not shown significant increases. No new deaths from influenza or COVID-19 were reported during the most recent epidemiological week, number 48.
Officials Urge Vaccination and Vigilance
Health leaders are directing the public toward specific preventive actions. They stress that vaccination remains the most effective tool against severe outcomes. The co-circulation of influenza A and RSV is the primary driver for the current alert status.
“Vaccinate against influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, prioritizing risk groups,” the ministry’s alert recommends. [Translated from Spanish] It also advises citizens to “maintain COVID-19 boosters as appropriate and go to health centers for respiratory symptoms while reinforcing self-care to protect the most vulnerable.” [Translated from Spanish]
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) report that triggered Panama’s alert monitors global trends that often foreshadow activity in the Americas. The ministry’s proactive stance aims to prevent the severe outbreaks currently being seen in other regions.
Annual Death Toll Highlights Ongoing Risk
Historical context underscores why authorities are taking this surge seriously. Cumulative death totals for 2025 so far include 97 fatalities from influenza and 47 from COVID-19. These numbers demonstrate the persistent threat posed by respiratory viruses even outside of pandemic emergencies.
Public health strategy now focuses on maximizing vaccine coverage before any potential peak. High-risk groups include young children, adults over 60, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines recently developed for older adults are part of this enhanced protection effort.
Panama’s health system is reportedly prepared to manage an increase in cases. The alert ensures all regional facilities are coordinating their surveillance and response protocols. This move toward a unified national approach mirrors strategies used for other public health initiatives, such as the country’s recent gica tras which required broad systemic coordination.
For now, the situation is one of vigilance rather than crisis. The epidemiological alert serves as an official call to action for both the healthcare network and the public. Its success will be measured by the prevention of severe illness and death during this period of elevated viral activity.