Panama and the Coronavirus (Covid-19 and D614G Mutation) Pandemic

[Moderator_02 0]

Moderator comment: Below is an email received from the US Embassy in Panama City concerning humanitarian flights.

Quote

------ Original Message ------

From: panama-acs@state.gov

To:

Sent: 6/24/2020 11:27:28 AM

Subject: Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 24, 2020)

 

 

Message for U.S. Citizens:  U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 24, 2020)

 

Location: Panama

 

Event: Planned Commercial Humanitarian Flights

 

The Embassy has identified four upcoming humanitarian flights with seats available.  The first flight is operated by Copa Airlines (flight number CM9234) and is scheduled for July 1.  The three other flights are operated by Spirit Airlines and are scheduled for June 25, July 2, and July 9 (flight number NK6511).  There are no additional flights confirmed at this time, so if you desire to return to the United States, it is important to book immediately.  Any traveler with the appropriate passport/visa to permit entry into the United States who wishes to depart Panama is eligible to purchase a ticket.  Travelers should carefully plan their onward travel as hotel options in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale may be limited.  Once in the United States, all domestic travel arrangements are the sole responsibility of the traveler.

 

The Embassy is aware that the Government of Panama has approved in-bound flights from the United States to Panama to provide Panamanian citizens and other qualified travelers the opportunity to travel to Panama.  Questions about qualifications necessary and approval for passengers on these flights should be directed to the Embassy of Panama, in Washington, D.C.  Airlines operating these flights, such as Copa Airlines, may occasionally be able to offer seats on the out-bound flights to some passengers.  Please contact the airline offering these seats for sale directly about those flights.  The U.S. Embassy in Panama will continue announcing all flights approved by the Panamanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs as humanitarian flights to the United States.

 

NOTE – We encourage you to purchase your tickets as soon as possible to ensure you are able to return to the United States.  U.S. citizens who choose not to depart on these flights should prepare to remain in Panama indefinitely and shelter in place.   

 

 

The currently authorized, upcoming humanitarian flights are:

 

•  June 25 Spirit Airlines, departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 1:00 p.m. for Fort Lauderdale, FL, to arrive at 5:00 p.m.
•  July 1 Copa Airlines, departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 3:00 a.m. for Miami, FL, to arrive at 7:15 a.m.
•  July 2 Spirit Airlines, departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 2:00 p.m. for Fort Lauderdale, FL, to arrive at 6:00 p.m.
•  July 9 Spirit Airlines, departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 2:00 p.m. for Fort Lauderdale, FL, to arrive at 6:00 p.m.

 

For additional information about these flights and to make reservations please contact the airlines directly.  These tickets will be available soon, if not already, and the Embassy encourages you to check Copa’s and Spirit’s websites regularly for updates.

 

 

Flights that appear to be sold out may have openings due to cancelations.  Continue checking directly with the airlines for any openings.

 

There are no guarantees for these flights or the space available.

 

The Embassy encourages interested U.S. citizens and LPRs to purchase early and forward your purchase confirmation email to the Embassy immediately at PanamaCityUSCitizen@state.gov so that we can assist you with the issuance of salvoconducto passes.

 

The Embassy will continue its efforts to identify and seek approval for future humanitarian flights to the United States as long citizens indicate the desire to evacuate. 

 

Messages to U.S. citizens with updates on repatriation flights are sent daily to citizens living in Panama while the Embassy is assisting with approved flights from Panama to the United States.  Messages providing updated COVID-19 case numbers and information about the measures taken to combat COVID-19 in Panama will now be sent once per week, unless there are significant changes requiring immediate updates.

 

Consult the Embassy’s website (https://pa.usembassy.gov/) for additional information on the situation in Panama and the Department of State’s COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.

 

Assistance:   

 

U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama 
Building 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Avenue 
Clayton, Panama 
+507 317-5000 
Panama-ACS@state.gov  
https://pa.usembassy.gov/  
 

 

State Department – Consular Affairs 
+1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444  

 

Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.  

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. 

 

[Moderator_02 0]

As of late Wednesday, June 24^th, 2020 - 28,030 infected, 547 deaths, 14,794 recoveries. 114,042 Covid-19 tests administered to date.

Tocumen is no longer the "hotspot" in Panama. While the Tocumen area is still going up, it has been surpassed by Arraijan.

Alto Boquete remains at 14 confirmed cases, and Bajo Boquete remains at 3 confirmed cases. Minsa reports the 14 cases in Alto Boquete, and the 3 cases in Bajo Boquete are recovered. That means no active coronavirus cases in the Boquete area.

         Note: No graphic representation for Bajo Boquete available.

The "Chiriqui hotspot" of Nuevo Méjico/Divalá, which is just west of David reporting 225 cases. Click Here for more information about Nuevo Méjico and Divalá.

           

https://geosocial.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/2c6e932c690d467b85375af52b614472

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

Taxista que violó cuarentena pese a estar contagiado de COVID-19 puede enfrentar cargos

Cecilio Saldaña • 24 Jun 2020 - 07:16 PM

El Ministerio Público (MP) informó que la Fiscalía Regional de Panamá Oeste abrió investigación de oficio por posible comisión de delito contra la salud pública (propagación de enfermedad contagiosa) en caso de un conductor de taxi que circulaba en La Chorrera, pese a haber sido confinado por dar positivo a COVID-19.

 

Moderator comment: Below is an unedited automated translation of the above news article.

Quote

Taxi driver who violated quarantine despite being infected with COVID-19 may face charges

<<taxi driver.jpg>>

Cecilio Saldaña • Jun 24, 2020 - 07:16 PM

The Public Ministry (MP) reported that the Panama West Regional Prosecutor's Office opened an investigation ex officio for the possible commission of a crime against public health (spread of contagious disease) in the case of a taxi driver who was driving in La Chorrera, despite having been confined for testing positive for COVID-19.

 

https://www.telemetro.com/nacionales/2020/06/25/taxista-que-violo-cuarentena-pese-a-estar-contagiado-de-covid-19-puede-enfrentar-cargos/2985001.html

[Brundageba 548]

On 2/3/2020 at 1:08 PM, Uncle Doug said:

I suspected that the Air China flight would be in jeopardy since it was mostly a Beijing/Houston connection, and Houston isn't a receiving airport for China as of today.

There are no direct flights from China into Tocumen, so that possibly helps a bit with  infected travelers who could be detected before arriving here.  But for the last few days, the number of reported infections is still growing at 20% per day.  It doesn't take too long at that rate, compounded daily, before it becomes a huge number. 

Yes.  Many folks do no believe wearing a well applied efficient mask and strict distancing are necessary.   There's lots of misinformation out there coupled with wishful thinking that any opening signifies "normal" is approaching.  (It won't any time soon...my thought.)  It seems the more that  is learned about how very insidious this disease is...the more debunking  sails out via internet.  People are real tired of it all at this point.   An example:    Taxi driver who violated quarantine despite being infected with COVID-19 may face charges.                       

Alison, the nurse  

[Moderator_02 0]

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Gorgas Institute racks up virus test supplies

Posted 24/06/2020

The Gorgas Commemorative Institute, , has purchased  75,000 PCR tests (used to detect COVID-19) at a cost between $ 8.50 and $10 each meaning that between  $637,500 and $ 750,000 have been invested in tests, not counting costs of extraction kits and swabs, according the Ministry of Health (Minsa).

Gorgas is currently in the process of purchasing 10,000 additional tests. An additional 20,000 tests are expected to be obtained, 10,000 from the Pan American Health Organization and 10,000 donated by South Korea reports TVN

Rapid antigen tests have also been applied in Panama, at a cost of $12.50. Some 15,000 have been made in the last month, representing an approximate cost of $187,500. The team of scientists at the Gorgas Memorial Institute is working to sequence the COVID-19 virus to determine its genomic traceability. So far, 300 positive cases have been sequenced in Panama determining the different strains present in the country.

 

https://www.newsroompanama.com/health/gorgas-institute-racks-up-virus-test-supplies

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

Coronavirus modular hospital gets opening green light

Posted 24/06/2020

The controversy shrouded Panama Solidario [modular] Hospital in Albrook has finally received the green light for complete opening from the Technical Council of Public Health said the Ministry of Health (Minsa)  on Wednesday, June 24.

A few days earlier, the council approved the gradual opening of the facility, built to treat coronavirus sufferers and it received the first  five patients on June 11 To date, it houses  27 Covid-19 patients. including new admissions on Wenesday  said the Minsa.

The modular hospital has 100 beds: 80 in wards and 20 in the intensive care unit (ICU).

The Ministry received the keys to the hospital, built in a month by the SmartBrix Central America company, with whom the Ministry of Public Works signed a $6.9 million contract. The Comptroller General has so far refused to endorse the contract, which is why, according to  Public Works  Minister  Rafael Sabonge, SmartBrix has not been paid "a dollar”, and investigations into several aspects of the deal are ongoing.

Meanwhile, Panama hospital facilities and medical staff are near the tipping point as the number of coronavirus infections continues to surge.

 

https://www.newsroompanama.com/health/coronavirus-modular-hospital-gets-opening-green-light

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

Sex, booze, and drugs at quarantine busting parties

Posted 24/06/2020

Health authorities broke up over a dozen weekend quarantine busting parties, including, liquor, and drugs.in  Panama West an epi-center of  COVID-19 infections.

Police broke up one event  during Sunday’s  total lockdown in  a mall  on the Arraiján - La Chorrera highway where the hosts had  hired  five sex-workers and provided drinks, condoms and  illegal substances

The offenders were detained and brought before a judge  and Health authorities said  they will request that” they be punished to the maximum extent permitted by law.”

Officials from the Ministry of Health  reiterated that the health system in La Chorrera is about to collapse and that there are some people who still do not seem to assimilate that the virus is deadly

 

https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/sex-booze-and-drugs-at-quarantine-busting-parties

[Moderator_02 0]

Moderator comment: Below is an email received from the US Embassy in Panama City concerning humanitarian flights.

Quote

------ Original Message ------

From: panama-acs@state.gov

To:

Sent: 6/25/2020 8:06:58 AM

Subject: Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 25, 2020)

 

 

Message for U.S. Citizens:  U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 25, 2020)

 

Location: Panama

 

Event: Planned Commercial Humanitarian Flights

 

The Embassy has identified two upcoming humanitarian flights with seats available.  The first flight is operated by Copa Airlines (flight number CM9234) and is scheduled for July 1.  The second flight is operated by Spirit Airlines and is scheduled for July 2 (flight number NK6511).  There are no additional flights confirmed with available seats at this time, so if you desire to return to the United States, it is important to book immediately.  Any traveler with the appropriate passport/visa to permit entry into the United States who wishes to depart Panama is eligible to purchase a ticket.  Travelers should carefully plan their onward travel as hotel options in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale may be limited.  Once in the United States, all domestic travel arrangements are the sole responsibility of the traveler.

 

The Embassy is aware that the Government of Panama has approved in-bound flights from the United States to Panama to provide Panamanian citizens and other qualified travelers the opportunity to travel to Panama.  Questions about qualifications necessary and approval for passengers on these flights should be directed to the Embassy of Panama, in Washington, D.C.  Airlines operating these flights, such as Copa Airlines, may occasionally be able to offer seats on the out-bound flights to some passengers.  Please contact the airline offering these seats for sale directly about those flights.  The U.S. Embassy in Panama will continue announcing all flights approved by the Panamanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs as humanitarian flights to the United States.

 

NOTE – We encourage you to purchase your tickets as soon as possible to ensure you are able to return to the United States.  U.S. citizens who choose not to depart on these flights should prepare to remain in Panama indefinitely and shelter in place.   

 

 

The currently authorized, upcoming humanitarian flights are:

 

•  July 1 Copa Airlines, departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 3:00 a.m. for Miami, FL, to arrive at 7:15 a.m.
•  July 2 Spirit Airlines, departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 2:00 p.m. for Fort Lauderdale, FL, to arrive at 6:00 p.m.
•  July 9 Spirit Airlines (SOLD OUT), departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 2:00 p.m. for Fort Lauderdale, FL, to arrive at 6:00 p.m.

 

For additional information about these flights and to make reservations please contact the airlines directly.  These tickets will be available soon, if not already, and the Embassy encourages you to check Copa’s and Spirit’s websites regularly for updates.

 

 

Flights that appear to be sold out may have openings due to cancelations.  Continue checking directly with the airlines for any openings.

 

There are no guarantees for these flights or the space available.

 

The Embassy encourages interested U.S. citizens and LPRs to purchase early and forward your purchase confirmation email to the Embassy immediately at PanamaCityUSCitizen@state.gov so that we can assist you with the issuance of salvoconducto passes.

 

The Embassy will continue its efforts to identify and seek approval for future humanitarian flights to the United States as long citizens indicate the desire to evacuate. 

 

Messages to U.S. citizens with updates on repatriation flights are sent daily to citizens living in Panama while the Embassy is assisting with approved flights from Panama to the United States.  Messages providing updated COVID-19 case numbers and information about the measures taken to combat COVID-19 in Panama will now be sent once per week, unless there are significant changes requiring immediate updates.

 

Consult the Embassy’s website (https://pa.usembassy.gov/) for additional information on the situation in Panama and the Department of State’s COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.

 

Assistance:   

 

U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama 
Building 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Avenue 
Clayton, Panama 
+507 317-5000 
Panama-ACS@state.gov  
https://pa.usembassy.gov/  
 

 

State Department – Consular Affairs 
+1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444  

 

Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.  

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. 

 

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

Más de mil casos de Covid-19 en las últimas 24 horas y 17 defunciones

Flor Cogley L.

25 jun 2020 - 06:22 PM

Lourdes Moreno, jefa de Epidemiología del Minsa. Cortesía/Minsa

El reporte del Ministerio de Salud (Minsa) de este jueves 25 de junio reveló que en las últimas 24 horas se dieron 17 decesos por la Covid-19 y 1,007 nuevos casos.

Estas cifras aumenta las muertes a 564 y los casos acumulados del nuevo coronavirus a 29,037.

Defunciones por Covid-19

La jefa de Epidemiología del Minsa, Lourdes Moreno, dijo que los pacientes hospitalizados son 826 de los cuales 686 están en sala y 140 en UCI.

Sobre las personas en aislamiento domiciliario se conoció que hay 12,874 (12,111 en casa y 736 en los llamados hoteles hospitales).

El total de pacientes recuperados llega a 14,800. Es decir que en las últimas horas solo se sumaron a este grupo 6 personas.

El acumulado de pruebas realizadas desde que llegó el virus al país en marzo pasado son 117,266, y de estas 85,384 resultaron negativas y 31,882 positivas.

Las nuevas pruebas en las últimas horas fueron 3,224, dijo Moreno.

 

Moderator comment: Below is an unedited automated translation of the above news article.

Quote

More than a thousand cases of Covid-19 in the last 24 hours and 17 deaths

Flor Cogley L.
Jun 25, 2020 - 06:22 PM

<<minsa 1000.jpg>>
Lourdes Moreno, Head of Epidemiology at the Minsa. Courtesy / Minsa

The report of the Ministry of Health (Minsa) this Thursday, June 25 revealed that in the last 24 hours there were 17 deaths from Covid-19 and 1,007 new cases.

These figures increase the deaths to 564 and the accumulated cases of the new coronavirus to 29,037.

<<KPJCNORXKNFOTCBCD7VVH46OMU.jpeg>>
Covid-19 deaths

The head of Epidemiology at the Minsa, Lourdes Moreno, said that there are 826 hospitalized patients, of which 686 are in the ward and 140 are in the ICU.

About people in home isolation it was known that there are 12,874 (12,111 at home and 736 in so-called hospital hotels).

The total number of recovered patients reaches 14,800. In other words, in the last few hours, only 6 people joined this group.

The accumulated number of tests carried out since the virus arrived in the country last March is 117,266, and of these 85,384 were negative and 31,882 positive.

New tests in the last hours were 3,224, Moreno said.

 

https://www.prensa.com/sociedad/mas-de-mil-casos-de-covid-19-en-las-ultimas-24-horas-y-17-defunciones/

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

47 court officials test positive for virus

Posted 25/06/2020

At least  of 47 officials of the Judicial Branch have tested positive for the Covid-19 virus, which has forced the closure of some courts to prevent the spread of the disease to collaborators and users of the system.

In a  statement released Thursday, June 25  the Judicial Branch, said that possible contacts are being followed up and disinfection work is being carried out in thejudicial offices.

 

https://www.newsroompanama.com/news/47-court-officials-test-positive-for-virus

[Moderator_02 0]

Moderator comment: Below is an email received from the US Embassy in Panama City.

Quote

------ Original Message ------

From: panama-acs@state.gov

To:

Sent: 6/26/2020 9:07:27 AM

Subject: Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 26, 2020)

 

 

Health Alert:  U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 26, 2020)

  

Event:  COVID-19 Situation Report and Reminders

 

On June 25, Panama’s Ministry of Health (MINSA) confirmed 29,037 cases of COVID-19.

 

On June 17, the Government of Panama extended the suspension of international commercial passenger flights for an additional 30 days through July 22.  The previous exceptions for cargo, humanitarian, medical supplies, medical evacuation, and vaccines remain in place.

 

On June 7, MINSA published a resolution regarding movement restrictions in the provinces of Panama and Panama Oeste.  These provinces returned to movement restrictions based on gender and ID number beginning June 8.  Gender restrictions allow for movements as follows:

 

·       Women:  Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

·       Men:  Tuesday and Thursday.  Saturday until 5pm

 

Additionally, movement are restricted to a two-hour window based on the last digit of each individual’s cedula number or passport number if an individual is not a citizen of Panama.  U.S. Citizens in Panama should always carry their passports, and their Panamanian cedula if they have one.  The two-hour windows are as follows:

 

·       Last number is 7 – 6:30 – 8:30am

·       Last number is 8 – 7:30 – 9:30am

·       Last number is 9 – 8:30 – 10:30am

·       Last number is 0 – 9:30 – 11:30am

·       Last number is 1 – 12:30 – 2:30pm

·       Last number is 2 – 1:30 – 3:30pm

·       Last number is 3 – 2:30 – 4:30pm

·       Last number is 4 – 3:30 – 5:30pm

·       Last number is 5 – 4:30 – 6:30pm

·       Last number is 6 – 5:30 – 7:30pm

 

 

There is a special window for those over 60 years old, regardless of cedula or passport numbers, between 7:00am and 10:00am (gender restrictions still apply).

 

Weekend curfew for the month of June is from 5:00 p.m. on Saturday until 5:00 a.m. on Monday.

 

Normal exceptions apply for holders of permission letters (salvoconductos).

 

 

Parents may take one child per family outside near their home or in the social areas of their apartment building during the two-hour window of the accompanying parent.

 

Hours of circulation during the total quarantine are intended only for essential purchases by one person per household.   The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens in Panama that it is always obligatory to comply with local laws.  Other provinces in Panama will continue with the curfew that began on June 1 (see details below). 

 

MINSA reminds citizens and residents of Panama that staying at home, not touching your face, and washing your hands frequently are the best means of prevention against COVID-19.  It also requires the use of masks, even homemade ones, when in public.

 

The Embassy encourages everyone to prepare accordingly.  Take the opportunity to stock up on any medicines and food supplies you may need to shelter in place in your homes for an extended period of time.

 

On June 11, MINSA announced that a health cordon has been declared in the community of Iber-Gun, in the township of Cristobal, Colon Province.  Health cordons were also announced on June 4 for the communities of Pantanal and Finca 1 in Changuinola, and Solución in Bocas del Toro.

 

Effective June 8, Panama’s National Immigration Service opened and started a 90-day period during which foreigners may submit applications to maintain or adjust their immigration status in Panama without incurring fines.  This applies to applicants whose immigration status expired between March 13 and June 7.  For more details see www.migración.gob.pa.

 

On June 2, 2020, MINSA published a resolution stating that anyone leaving their residence must be wearing a mask that covers their nose and mouth.  Any individual not wearing a mask is subject to possible detention and fine.

 

Starting June 1, the Government of Panama ended the quarantine with movement restrictions based on ID number and gender.  This change remains in effect for all provinces except Panama and Panama Oeste.  For all other provinces, the quarantine and two-hour movement windows were replaced by a curfew from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., Monday through Sunday.  Children are also free to move about from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., accompanied by a parent, guardian, or caretaker.  The use of masks and social distancing are still required.  This new flexibility does not permit social group activities, cultural events, festivals, visits to the beach, contact sports, or any other activity that violates social distancing.  The Government of Panama still maintains security checkpoints on the roads and prohibits most interprovincial travel. 

  

Also on June 1, the second economic block opened.  The sectors included in that block are public construction, mining of non-metals, and industry.  Religious sites, parks, social areas, and sporting areas are also allowed to operate at 25 percent capacity.  For more details about the Government of Panama’s plan to gradually reopen the economy, visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 information page (see link below).  The Government of Panama will evaluate every two weeks, but the date for opening additional business blocks remains unknown.

 

On April 21, the Municipal Council of the City of Panama passed a new decree stating that anyone leaving their residence must be wearing a mask that covers their nose and mouth.  Panamanian National Police and Municipal Police will enforce the decree which extends throughout the metropolitan area of Panama City.

  

On March 26, Panama announced the nationwide suspension of commercial passenger and domestic charter flights, in addition to the ban on international commercial passenger flights.  There are exceptions for cargo, humanitarian, medical supplies, medical evacuation, and vaccines.

 

On March 19, the U.S. Department of State issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory, advising U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19.   In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live in the United States should arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period.

 

The Embassy is working on evacuation options via commercial humanitarian and military flights for those U.S. Citizens wishing to depart Panama.  Please express your interest in consideration for potential evacuation flights by emailing:  PanamaCityUSCitizen@state.gov.

 

On March 17, U.S. Embassy Panama suspended routine consular services.  For emergency American Citizens Services, including emergency passports, please visit our website for additional information.

 

On March 14, the Department of State authorized the departure from any diplomatic or consular post in the world of U.S. personnel and family members who have been medically determined to be at higher risk of a poor outcome if exposed to COVID-19.

 

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, the Peace Corps has reduced/evacuated all Volunteers from Panama.

 

The Government of Panama has implemented enhanced quarantine measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19.  Travelers should be prepared for further travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice.  Visit the website of the Panamanian Ministry of Health (in Spanish) for the most up to date information on these measures.

 

Schools and universities are closed nation-wide.  Sporting events, festivals, and all gatherings larger than 50 people have been banned.  Visit the local government COVID-19 website for updated information.

 

The Department of State has issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory for COVID-19.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Global COVID-19 Outbreak Notice.

 

U.S. government personnel are restricted from non-essential domestic and international travel.

 

Messages to U.S. citizens with updates on repatriation flights are sent daily to citizens living in Panama while the Embassy is assisting with approved flights from Panama to the United States.  Messages providing updated COVID-19 case numbers and information about the measures taken to combat COVID-19 in Panama will now be sent once per week, unless there are significant changes requiring immediate updates.

 

Actions to Take:

 

·       Consult the CDC website for the most up-to-date information.

·       For the most recent information on what you can do to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19, please see the CDC’s latest recommendations.

·       Visit the COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.

·       Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in Panama.

·       Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website on the latest travel restrictions to the United States.

 

Assistance:

 

U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama
Building 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Avenue
Clayton, Panama
+507 317-5000
Panama-ACS@state.gov
https://pa.usembassy.gov/
 

State Department – Consular Affairs
+1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444

 

Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.

 

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

 

[Moderator_02 0]

Moderator comment: Below is an email received from the US Embassy in Panama City concerning humanitarian flights.

Quote

------ Original Message ------

From: panama-acs@state.gov

To:

Sent: 6/26/2020 8:47:23 AM

Subject: Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 26, 2020)

 

 

Message for U.S. Citizens:  U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 26, 2020)

 

Location: Panama

 

Event: Planned Commercial Humanitarian Flights

 

The Embassy has identified two upcoming humanitarian flights with seats available.  The first flight is operated by Copa Airlines (flight number CM9234) and is scheduled for July 1.  The second flight is operated by Spirit Airlines and is scheduled for July 2 (flight number NK6511).  There are no additional confirmed flights with available seats at this time, so if you desire to return to the United States, it is important to book immediately. Any traveler with the appropriate passport/visa to permit entry into the United States who wishes to depart Panama is eligible to purchase a ticket.  Travelers should carefully plan their onward travel as hotel options in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale may be limited.  Once in the United States, all domestic travel arrangements are the sole responsibility of the traveler.

 

The Embassy is aware that the Government of Panama has approved in-bound flights from the United States to Panama to provide Panamanian citizens and other qualified travelers the opportunity to travel to Panama.  Questions about qualifications necessary and approval for passengers on these flights should be directed to the Embassy of Panama, in Washington, D.C.  Airlines operating these flights, such as Copa Airlines, may occasionally be able to offer seats on the out-bound flights to some passengers.  Please contact the airline offering these seats for sale directly about those flights.  The U.S. Embassy in Panama will continue announcing all flights approved by the Panamanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs as humanitarian flights to the United States.

 

NOTE – We encourage you to purchase your tickets as soon as possible to ensure you are able to return to the United States.  U.S. citizens who choose not to depart on these flights should prepare to remain in Panama indefinitely and shelter in place.   

 

 

The currently authorized, upcoming humanitarian flights are:

 

•  July 1 Copa Airlines, departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 3:00 a.m. for Miami, FL, to arrive at 7:15 a.m.
•  July 2 Spirit Airlines, departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 2:00 p.m. for Fort Lauderdale, FL, to arrive at 6:00 p.m.
•  July 9 Spirit Airlines (SOLD OUT), departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 2:00 p.m. for Fort Lauderdale, FL, to arrive at 6:00 p.m.

 

For additional information about these flights and to make reservations please contact the airlines directly.  These tickets will be available soon, if not already, and the Embassy encourages you to check Copa’s and Spirit’s websites regularly for updates.

 

 

Flights that appear to be sold out may have openings due to cancelations.  Continue checking directly with the airlines for any openings.

 

There are no guarantees for these flights or the space available.

 

The Embassy encourages interested U.S. citizens and LPRs to purchase early and forward your purchase confirmation email to the Embassy immediately at PanamaCityUSCitizen@state.gov so that we can assist you with the issuance of salvoconducto passes.

 

The Embassy will continue its efforts to identify and seek approval for future humanitarian flights to the United States as long citizens indicate the desire to evacuate. 

 

Messages to U.S. citizens with updates on repatriation flights are sent daily to citizens living in Panama while the Embassy is assisting with approved flights from Panama to the United States.  Messages providing updated COVID-19 case numbers and information about the measures taken to combat COVID-19 in Panama will now be sent once per week, unless there are significant changes requiring immediate updates.

 

Consult the Embassy’s website (https://pa.usembassy.gov/) for additional information on the situation in Panama and the Department of State’s COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.

 

Assistance:   

 

U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama 
Building 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Avenue 
Clayton, Panama 
+507 317-5000 
Panama-ACS@state.gov  
https://pa.usembassy.gov/  
 

 

State Department – Consular Affairs 
+1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444  

 

Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.  

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

 

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

716 new virus cases, deaths at 547

Masks help reduce spreadof the deadly virus

Posted 25/06/2020

Panama, deaths from Covid-19 reached  547 on  Wednesday, June 24 and accumulated cases climbed  to 28,030 reports  the Ministry of Health (Minsa)

The latest epidemiology report reveals confirms 716 new cases and  11 deaths in one day.

There are 779 hospitalized patients (649 in ward and 130 in intensive care units).

The new tests carried out to detect the virus totaled  2,307, which brings the accumulated number of tests to 114,042. Of this total, 83,167 were negative and 30,875 positive.

 

https://www.newsroompanama.com/health/716-new-virus-cases-deaths-at-547

[Moderator_02 0]

As of late Friday, June 26^th, 2020 - 29,037 infected, 564 deaths, 14,800 recoveries. 117,266 Covid-19 tests administered to date.

Tocumen has returned to the dubious status of being the "hotspot" in Panama.

Alto Boquete remains at 14 confirmed cases, and Bajo Boquete remains at 3 confirmed cases. Minsa reports the 14 cases in Alto Boquete, and the 3 cases in Bajo Boquete are recovered. That means no active coronavirus cases in the Boquete area.

         Note: No graphic representation for Bajo Boquete available.

The "Chiriqui hotspot" of Nuevo Méjico/Divalá, which is just west of David reporting 225 cases. Click Here for more information about Nuevo Méjico and Divalá.

           

https://geosocial.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/2c6e932c690d467b85375af52b614472

[Moderator_02 0]

Moderator comment: Given the below Tweet by Chiriqui Noticias, supposedly based on Minsa epidemiological data, Boquete (apparently referring to the combined Alto Boquete and Bajo Boquete regions) now is reporting 18 Covid-19 cases. For the past many weeks those two regions were reporting 17 total cases. This suggests that a new case has been detected in the Boquete region. However, in checking sources available to CL, we can find no substantiating data.

Chiriqui Noticias has blocked its Tweets from being embedded, and so the only means to republish this data is a screen capture.

 

https://twitter.com/chiriquinotici1/status/1276818404113080320

[Penny 284]

Dra. Diaz told me yesterday that there was a new case in Jaramillo. She agreed with me that there have been no deaths to date in the entire Boquete District.

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

1007 new pandemic cases death total at, 564

Posted 26/06/2020

Panama registered 1,007 new cases of coronavirus on Thursday, June 25, the highest daily total since the pandemic arrived and 17 deaths in 24 hours brought the total to 564.

The accumulative total of people infected nationwide is now 29,037.

Of the  13,673 active cases, 826 are hospitalized, 686 are in the ward, and 140 are in intensive care, bringing hospital services near breaking point.

There are 76  townships with more than 10 positive cases, among them are Tocumen with 138 new infections reported, Juan Díaz 137, December 24 136, Belisario Porras 96, Pedregal 94, Arraiján 83, San Francisco 82, Ancón 77 Changuniola 69.

Contagions are registered in children under 20 years old (3,477), 20-39 years old (12,732), 40-59 years old (9,228), 60-79 years old (3,009), and over 80  (591) .

 

https://www.newsroompanama.com/health/1007-new-pandemic-cases-death-total-at-564-1

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

Private construction projects remain frozen

Posted 26/06/2020

Panama’s construction industry  got another setback on Friday June 26 with the news from the Health Ministry that, in the face of mushrooming  coronavirus cases  the shutdown of  private  building projects will be extended for another 15 days affecting scores of thousand of workers,

A  published decree  in officialese  said that "within the term of the suspension, the Ministry of Health may order by resolution, the reactivation of the operation, activity and mobility of companies to develop projects and provide services to a public institution, whose temporary suspension of activities is due to orders issued by the Executive Branch, due to the validity of the State of National Emergency. "

Pruvate construction activities have been suspended since March 19.  When with the opening of Block 2 of economic activities, public construction projects were authorized.

 

https://www.newsroompanama.com/business/private-construction-projects-remain-frozen

[Moderator_02 0]

Moderator comment: Also see the following postings/websites:

• https://citas.sertracen.com.pa/Citas/public/cita.jsf
• http://www.chiriqui.life/topic/14130-panama-and-the-coronavirus-covid-19-pandemic/?do=findComment&comment=41756
• http://www.chiriqui.life/topic/15143-how-to-use-the-sertracen-website-to-schedule-a-drivers-license-renewal-appointment/?tab=comments#comment-42121

 

Quote

Autoridad del Tránsito extiende hasta el 31 de julio vigencia de las licencias vencidas

Redacción de La Prensa

26 jun 2020 - 03:46 PM

La medida aplica para las licencias con fecha de expiración entre marzo y julio de 2020.

La Autoridad de Tránsito y Transporte Terrestre (ATTT) anunció este viernes, 26 de junio, una extensión para la vigencia de las licencias de conducir vencidas entre marzo y julio de 2020.

En un comunicado de la ATTT, se resalta que la decisión se toma como una medida de mitigación ante la propagación de la Covid-19 en el país.

Y de paso se le informa a la ciudadanía que a todas licencias de conducir con fecha de expiración entre los meses de marzo, abril, mayo, junio y julio, “se le concede prórroga en su vigencia hasta el 31 de julio de 2020”.

Tanto la ATTT, como otras entidades del Estado, ha decidido conceder prórrogas en la documentación que expiden para evitar aglomeraciones en sus instalaciones.

🔴COMUNICADO🔴

⬇️Se extiende la prórroga en la vigencia de licencias⬇️#TrabajandoPorPanamá🇵🇦#UnidosLoHacemos pic.twitter.com/v6uZGP3gy4

— Autoridad del Tránsito (@ATTTPanama) June 26, 2020

 

Moderator comment: Below is an unedited automated translation of the above news article, less the embedded Tweet.

Quote

Transit Authority extends the expired licenses until July 31

Press Writing
Jun 26, 2020 - 03:46 PM

<<E2E2BBNR75HRLDW7M5DO4LWZOA.jpeg>>
The measure applies to licenses with an expiration date between March and July 2020.

The Traffic and Land Transportation Authority (ATTT) announced this Friday, June 26, an extension to the validity of expired driver's licenses between March and July 2020.

In an ATTT statement, it is highlighted that the decision is made as a mitigation measure against the spread of Covid-19 in the country.

And by the way, citizens are informed that all driver's licenses with an expiration date between March, April, May, June and July, "are granted an extension in their validity until July 31, 2020."

Both ATTT and other state entities have decided to grant extensions in the documentation they issue to avoid crowds at their facilities.

 

https://www.prensa.com/sociedad/autoridad-del-transito-extiende-hasta-el-31-de-julio-vigencia-de-las-licencias-vencidas/

[Moderator_02 0]

Moderator comment: Below is an email received from the US Embassy in Panama City concerning humanitarian flights.

Quote

------ Original Message ------

From: panama-acs@state.gov

To:

Sent: 6/27/2020 10:53:19 AM

Subject: Message for U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 27, 2020)

 

 

Message for U.S. Citizens:  U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama (June 27, 2020)

 

Location: Panama

 

Event: Planned Commercial Humanitarian Flights

 

The Embassy has identified one upcoming humanitarian flight with seats available.  The flight is operated by Copa Airlines (flight number CM9234) and is scheduled for July 1.  There are no additional confirmed flights with available seats at this time, so if you desire to return to the United States, it is important to book immediately.  Any traveler with the appropriate passport/visa to permit entry into the United States who wishes to depart Panama is eligible to purchase a ticket.  Travelers should carefully plan their onward travel as hotel options in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale may be limited.  Once in the United States, all domestic travel arrangements are the sole responsibility of the traveler.

 

The Embassy is aware that the Government of Panama has approved in-bound flights from the United States to Panama to provide Panamanian citizens and other qualified travelers the opportunity to travel to Panama.  Questions about qualifications necessary and approval for passengers on these flights should be directed to the Embassy of Panama, in Washington, D.C.  Airlines operating these flights, such as Copa Airlines, may occasionally be able to offer seats on the out-bound flights to some passengers.  Please contact the airline offering these seats for sale directly about those flights.  The U.S. Embassy in Panama will continue announcing all flights approved by the Panamanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs as humanitarian flights to the United States.

 

NOTE – We encourage you to purchase your tickets as soon as possible to ensure you are able to return to the United States.  U.S. citizens who choose not to depart on these flights should prepare to remain in Panama indefinitely and shelter in place.   

 

 

The currently authorized, upcoming humanitarian flights are:

 

•  July 1 Copa Airlines, departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 3:00 a.m. for Miami, FL, to arrive at 7:15 a.m.
•  July 2 Spirit Airlines (SOLD OUT), departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 2:00 p.m. for Fort Lauderdale, FL, to arrive at 6:00 p.m.
•  July 9 Spirit Airlines (SOLD OUT), departing Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport at 2:00 p.m. for Fort Lauderdale, FL, to arrive at 6:00 p.m.

 

For additional information about these flights and to make reservations please contact the airlines directly.  These tickets will be available soon, if not already, and the Embassy encourages you to check Copa’s and Spirit’s websites regularly for updates.

 

 

Flights that appear to be sold out may have openings due to cancelations.  Continue checking directly with the airlines for any openings.

 

There are no guarantees for these flights or the space available.

 

The Embassy encourages interested U.S. citizens and LPRs to purchase early and forward your purchase confirmation email to the Embassy immediately at PanamaCityUSCitizen@state.gov so that we can assist you with the issuance of salvoconducto passes.

 

The Embassy will continue its efforts to identify and seek approval for future humanitarian flights to the United States as long citizens indicate the desire to evacuate. 

 

Messages to U.S. citizens with updates on repatriation flights are sent daily to citizens living in Panama while the Embassy is assisting with approved flights from Panama to the United States.  Messages providing updated COVID-19 case numbers and information about the measures taken to combat COVID-19 in Panama will now be sent once per week, unless there are significant changes requiring immediate updates.

 

Consult the Embassy’s website (https://pa.usembassy.gov/) for additional information on the situation in Panama and the Department of State’s COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov for the latest information.

 

Assistance:   

 

U.S. Embassy Panama City, Panama 
Building 783, Demetrio Basilio Lakas Avenue 
Clayton, Panama 
+507 317-5000 
Panama-ACS@state.gov  
https://pa.usembassy.gov/  
 

 

State Department – Consular Affairs 
+1 (888)407-4747 or +1 (202)501-4444  

 

Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.  

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

 

[OrangeHoof 5]

The MINSA site has, for about a week, listed an active case in Los Naranjos that is a domicile quarantine. That is just northwest of Bajo Boquete.

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

Panamá supera los 30 mil contagios de COVID-19 y suma 592 muertes

El Minsa pide a la población mantener las medidas de prevención contra el COVID-19. AFP

Teiga Castrellón • 27 Jun 2020 - 06:15 PM

El Ministerio de Salud (Minsa) reporte este sábado 27 de junio el avance del COVID-19 en Panamá a través del comunicado N°124, en el cual se dio a conocer que se reportan 30,658 casos acumulados, tras la detección de 753 nuevos casos en las últimas 24 horas.

Al corte de las 4:00 p.m. de este sábado Panamá eleva a 592 la cifra de muertos, tras registrarse 17 decesos desde el viernes en la tarde hasta la hora indicada.

Hasta el momento se han recuperado unas 15,370 personas.

El informe indica que sobre los casos activos unas 13,828 se mantienen aisladas, de las cuales 13,116 se mantienen en confinamiento domiciliario; 712 están en hoteles-hospitales; 727 se encuentran hospitalizados en salas y 141 permanecen en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos.

Sobre los 17 fallecidos se detalló que estaban entre las edades de los 47 años a los 85 años, 11 padecían enfermedades crónicas; nueve pertenecían al sexo masculino y 8 femeninas; y provenían de sectores como Finca 64 y El Empalme (Bocas del Toro); Divalá (Chiriquí); Cativá, Buena Vista y Cristóbal (Colón); Amelia Denis de Icaza, Rufina Alfaro, Belisario Frías, Las Cumbres, Curundú, Pedregal (2), Río Abajo y Ancón (Panamá); Vista Alegre y Arraiján (Panamá Oeste).

 

Moderator comment: Below is an unedited automated translation of the above news article.

Quote

Panama exceeds 30 thousand COVID-19 infections and totals 592 deaths

<<85848f19-99a5-43f9-a0fa-eebb7c1f6ed3_16-9-aspect-ratio_default_0.jpg>>

The Minsa asks the population to maintain preventive measures against COVID-19. AFP

Teiga Castrellón • Jun 27, 2020 - 06:15 PM

The Ministry of Health (Minsa) reports on Saturday June 27 the progress of COVID-19 in Panama through statement No. 124, in which it was announced that 30,658 accumulated cases are reported, after the detection of 753 new cases in the last 24 hours.

At the close of 4:00 p.m. This Saturday Panama raises the death toll to 592, after registering 17 deaths from Friday afternoon until the indicated time.

So far, some 15,370 people have recovered.

The report indicates that about active cases some 13,828 are kept isolated, of which 13,116 are kept in house confinement; 712 are in hotel-hospitals; 727 are hospitalized in wards and 141 remain in the Intensive Care Unit.

Of the 17 deceased, it was detailed that they were between the ages of 47 years to 85 years, 11 suffered from chronic diseases; nine were male and 8 female; and they came from sectors such as Finca 64 and El Empalme (Bocas del Toro); Divalá (Chiriquí); Cativá, Buena Vista and Cristóbal (Colón); Amelia Denis de Icaza, Rufina Alfaro, Belisario Frías, Las Cumbres, Curundú, Pedregal (2), Río Abajo and Ancón (Panama); Vista Alegre and Arraiján (Panamá Oeste).

 

https://www.telemetro.com/nacionales/2020/06/27/panama-supera-mil-contagios/2993820.html

[Moderator_02 0]

19 hours ago, OrangeHoof said:

The MINSA site has, for about a week, listed an active case in Los Naranjos that is a domicile quarantine. That is just northwest of Bajo Boquete.

I have been searching for this kind of detail for weeks but to no avail. When I go to the Minsa website it now cuts off the display of detailed information at 9 cases per city/location.

Can you provide a URL to this information?

[Moderator_02 0]

Quote

Hospitals  and ICUs saturated, medics fatigued

Posted 27/06/2020

The constant growth of coronavirus  cases has brought Panama hospitals to saturation point in wards  hospitalization rooms and intensive care units said  Dr. Julio Sandoval, a member of the new thematic committee created this Friday after the departure of Rosario Turner, as Minister of Health

"The doctors and medical staff are fatigued, we are making superhuman efforts so that the system does not collapse," Sandoval adding that consideration should be given to "opening the convention centers and even expanding the hospital hotel networks to deal with the crisis.

Sandoval's statements add to the concern of Reinaldo Chandler, a pulmonologist and internist working on the front line of the fight against COVID-19, who said that "there is enormous pressure" in each of the hospitals.

.The country's largest hospitals, such as Santo Tomás, the Metropolitan Complex, San Miguel Arcángel, Nicolás Solano and Irma de Lourdes Tzanetatos, have had to restructure rooms to accommodate more patients.

 "There are patients with other pathologies who have not been able to be hospitalized, although they may require it, due to the occupation of these beds," said Chandler

 

https://www.newsroompanama.com/health/hospitals-and-icus-saturated-medics-fatigued

[Moderator_02 0]

Moderator comment: This news article is being posted as an exception to CL policy.

Quote

Brazil will produce 100, million doses of Oxford Covid-19 vaccine

Posted 27/06/2020

Brazil to produce 100, million  doses of Oxford Covid-19 vaccine

Brazil announced on Saturday, June 27  an agreement to produce up to 100 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine developed by the  British University of Oxford, and which Brazil is helping to test.

The vaccine, in which Oxford works alongside the pharmaceutical group AstraZeneca, is among the most promising of the dozens that researchers around the world are experimenting with.

Under the $ 127 million deal, the Brazilian government's public health institute, the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), will acquire the technology and supplies to produce the vaccine, which is being tested in Britain and South Africa, as well as in Brazil.

The executive secretary of the Ministry of Health, Elcio Franco, said that the agreement would give Brazil an advantage if the vaccine is effective and safe.

"The transfer of this technology will give us production autonomy," he said at a press conference.

"Brazil is trying to avoid situations like those that occurred at the beginning of the pandemic when high demand prevented us from accessing supplies and medicines. And we are evading the exorbitant profit margins applied during the pandemic," he added.

The agreement gives Brazil the right to produce an initial quantity of 30.4 million doses in December and January, while the vaccine is still being tested.

The $ 127 million stipulated in the agreement includes $30 million for the rights to the vaccine technology and the production process, authorities said.

If the vaccine passes clinical tests, Brazil will have the right to produce an additional 70 million doses, at an estimated cost of $2.30 each.

"Even if clinical trials are unsuccessful, our (vaccine production) technology will advance," said health ministry official Arnaldo Correia de Medeiros.

This week, Brazilian researchers began administering the vaccine, known as ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, to volunteers.

Brazil was selected because it is one of the countries where the virus is spreading the fastest.  The country’s president has likened it to the flu and two health ministers have resigned

The South American giant has the second highest number of cases and deaths worldwide after the United States, with more than 1.2 million people infected and 55,000 deaths, according to the latest official data.

Experts say that conducting a relatively low number of screening tests means that the actual numbers in this country of 212 million people are likely to be much higher.

 

https://www.newsroompanama.com/health/brazil-will-produce-100-million-doses-of-oxford-covid-19-vaccine