If Panama is widely renowned for its canal connecting the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean, the rest of the country often remains a mystery. Yet the narrow Central American nation has a lot to offer. Starting with its gorgeous nature. From volcanic mountains to mighty jungles home to jaguars and howler monkeys, Panama is a wildlife haven, hosting an abundance of tropical plants and animals, sometimes unique on Earth. And the beaches… With paradise crystal clear waters on one side and world-class surfing spots on the other side, Panama has something for everyone. Add a rich colonial history, and you have your perfect next travel destination.
HEALTH INFORMATION
Risk of Zika in this Country. Learn More >>
We make every effort to ensure that the information posted on our website is up to date and accurate according to the latest public health recommendations; however, it is impossible for us to make changes on a daily basis.
For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic as make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.
PANAMA – RECOMMENDED VACCINES
| Hepatitis A | Recommended for all travelers. |
| Tetanus – Diphteria – Pertussis Vaccine | Tetanus: In exceptional circumstances (eg, stay in a region where access to health care is limited), for a person aged 18 years or older, 1 dose of DT may be given if 5 years or more has elapsed since the last dose. Otherwise, one booster dose at the age of 50*. Pertussis (Whooping Cough): 1 dose is recommended for pregnant women, for every pregnancy, regardless of immunization history and the interval since the last dose (betwen week 26 and 32). *Only applicable for Quebec. |
| Measles – Rubella – Mumps | Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1970, if not previously given. |
| The Yellow Fever Vaccine | A proof of vaccination against yellow fever may be required upon entry in to this country. Some travellers may not be eligible to receive this vaccine. Please enquire with your health care professional regarding your specific details. It is important to note that the vaccine should be administered at least 10 days prior to your departure. For further information, please consult with the World Health Organization (WHO) website: https://www.who.int/ith/ith- |
| Flu – Influenza | Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing or by touching infected surfaces. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine yearly. Vaccine is recommended 14 days prior to departure. |
| Routine vaccines (dCaT, Polio, Meningococcal, Shingles, Pneumococcal, Hepatitis B, HPV, MMR & Varicella) | Recommended for all travelers |
| Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – Typhoid fever | Recommended for most travelers, especially those who are staying with friends or relatives; visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where exposure might occur through food or water; or prone to “adventurous eating” |
| Hepatitis B | Consider for most travelers; recommended for those who might be exposed to blood or other body fluids, have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment (e.g., for an accident). |
| Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention – Rabies | For travelers at high risk of animal bites or being involved in activities with bats, dogs and other mammals. Clients who plan to visit remote areas may consider receiving this vaccine. Important to note the pre-exposure rabies vaccine is administered in 2 doses with one week interval between doses. Post-exposure vaccination is always recommended, even for those previously vaccinated. |
| Chagas Disease | Presence. All travelers should protect themselves against triatomine bugs. |
| Turista – Traveler’s Diarrhea (ETEC) | Talk to your health care professional about the risks and precautionary measures to take, as well as the Dukoral® vaccine. Important to note that the Dukoral vaccine is an oral vaccine given in 2 doses, recommended at least 2 weeks prior to departure. |
| Malaria | Malaria is present in this country. The risk may be region specific. Prophylaxis measures to be discussed with the health care professional. |
| Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and/or Zika | There are many illnesses that are transmitted via mosquito bites and unfortunately we do not have vaccines to protect us against most of them. It is important to inquire with your healthcare professional regarding the specific risks and the different illnesses presently in circulation. |
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Ciprofloxacin, Azithromycin or Suprax. |
| Antimalarials Recommended | Malarone, Doxycycline or Mefloquine |
| Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone | Recommended to prevent Acute mountain sickness (AMS). |
MEDICAL CARE
In Panama, it is easy to find good medical care in the capital city. Travelers in need of medical care can go to the Hospital Nacional, the Clinica Hospital San Fernando or the Centro Medico Paitilla for example, all these establishments being located in Panama City. Note that most of the hospital facilities in Panama accept payment by credit card, while doctors usually only accept cash. In rural areas, access to health care facilities is extremely limited. In the event of serious health issues, an air evacuation to another country is required.
In case of emergency in Panama, you can reach the Alerta Ambulance service at 269 9778, the Hospital Nacional at 800 8432 or the Red Cross at 228 0692. Be aware that ambulance services are non existent outside of urban areas.
The pharmacy of the Hospital Nacional is well supplied. It is accessible 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. The Clinica Hospital San Fernando also has two pharmacies : the San Fernando and the Javillo pharmacies. But you should be aware that pharmaceutical products in Panama are not always reliable. It is safer to bring with you a complete basic medical kit and all the specific treatments you could require while traveling in the country.
SECURITY ABROAD
Avoid all travel between Yaviza and the Colombian border. Colombian guerrilla groups and drug traffickers are present in this area. The level of violent crime in this zone is extremely high, with numerous reports of kidnappings, armed robberies, deaths and disappearances.
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Emergency services exist but may be limited. In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 104
- medical assistance: 911
- firefighters: 103
