Panama's Dengue and Malaria Outbreaks Heat-Up

At the end of March 2025, the Republic of Panama's Ministry of Health announced it is strengthening preventive measures in the community of Las Guias in the district of Calobre, due to an increase in malaria cases.

As of March 31, 2025, 66 malaria cases were reported in the province, 6 of which were in Las Guías and La Raya de Calobre.

These malaria infections were confirmed in an area where a sugar harvest occurs in the Ngäbe-Buglé region. 

Over 100 years ago, building the Panama Canal generated malaria infections that cost many lives.

In a press release, Alex Sánchez, regional head of Public Health, emphasized that the Vector Control and Epidemiology departments continue to conduct research, case detection, teaching, and preventive operations, providing timely treatment and care.

Furthermore, it is essential to eliminate mosquito breeding sites to prevent all mosquito-transmitted diseases, including Dengue.

During the first three months of 2025, Panama has reported over 4,800 Dengue cases and four related fatalities.

Last year, the Pan American Health Organization reported Panama confirmed 37,231 Dengue cases and 52 fatalities.

There is also an outbreak of Oropouche in Espírito Santo, Brazil, and Darién Province.

Like Dengue and Malaria, Oropouche is spread primarily through the bites of infected midges and mosquitoes.

While the U.S. CDC has issued Travel Health Advisories for Panama, as of April 2, 2025, it has not authorized the use of preventive vaccines against Dengue and Malaria.

A second-generation Dengue vaccine, QDENGA®, is offered in various countries in the Americas.

Moreover, malaria vaccines have also been approved for use in Africa.

According to cruise ship news in early 2025, passing through the Panama Canal does not pose a significant health risk for passengers!