Panama is a Central American country known for its biodiversity, rich culture, and beautiful beaches. However, like any country, it has its own set of health risks that visitors should be aware of. This article provides an overview of the common health risks in Panama, the inoculations and vaccinations required for entry, and where to get reliable advice on health risks and vaccination requirements.
Health Risks in Panama
Panama is a relatively safe country in terms of health risks. However, visitors should be aware of the following:
Sun exposure
Panama has a tropical climate, and visitors should take precautions to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion. Sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing should be used to prevent sun damage, and visitors should stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and Zika virus are present in Panama. Visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours.
Food and water-borne illnesses
Panama has generally good food and water quality, and tap water is safe to drink in most urban areas. However, visitors who plan to consume raw or undercooked foods should be aware of the risks of foodborne illnesses, such as gastroenteritis. It is advisable to consume only pasteurized dairy products and to wash fruits and vegetables before eating them.
Respiratory illnesses
Panama has a high incidence of respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Visitors who have respiratory problems or other health conditions that may be aggravated by air pollution should take precautions, such as avoiding busy streets during rush hour and spending more time in green spaces.
Inoculations, Vaccinations and Health Certificates for Entry into Panama
All visitors to Panama are required to show proof of vaccination against yellow fever if they have recently visited an affected area. This requirement applies to all visitors, regardless of the length of stay.
Visitors from certain countries may also be required to provide a health certificate confirming they are free from certain diseases, such as tuberculosis. This requirement applies to visitors who plan to stay in Panama for more than three months and who are from countries considered to be at high risk for tuberculosis.
Where to Get Reliable Advice on Health Risks and Vaccination Requirements
The Panamanian government provides reliable information on health risks and vaccination requirements through several channels.
Ministry of Health
The Ministry of Health is the Panamanian government agency responsible for public health. Its website provides up-to-date information on health risks and vaccination requirements, as well as advice on how to stay healthy while in Panama.
Visitors can also contact the Ministry of Health by phone or email for advice on specific health concerns. The Ministry of Health can be reached at +507 512 9100 or via email at info@minsa.gob.pa.
Panama Tourism Authority
The Panama Tourism Authority is responsible for promoting tourism in Panama. Their website provides information on entry requirements, including vaccination requirements and health certificates.
Visitors can also contact the Panama Tourism Authority for advice on specific travel concerns. They can be reached at +507 526 7000 or via email at info@visitpanama.com.
Embassy of Panama
The Embassy of Panama in the visitor’s home country provides information on entry requirements, including vaccination requirements and health certificates. Visitors can contact the Embassy for advice on specific travel concerns.
In summary, Panama is a relatively safe country in terms of health risks. Visitors should be aware of the risks of sun exposure, mosquito-borne diseases, food and water-borne illnesses, and respiratory illnesses. All visitors to Panama are required to show proof of vaccination against yellow fever, and visitors from certain countries may be required to provide a health certificate confirming they are free from certain diseases.
Visitors can obtain reliable advice on health risks and vaccination requirements from the Ministry of Health, Panama Tourism Authority, and Embassy of Panama. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed, visitors can enjoy their stay in Panama while staying healthy and safe.