In a follow-up to the coverage of the H1N1 influenza outbreak in Panama, the Ministry of Health is advising the public to get vaccinated as more fatalities and hospitalizations are reported (computer translated).

generic influenza virion
3D influenza/CDC

Health officials say nearly 3,500 people have required hospitalization and 250 remain hospitalized to date. In addition, the number of H1N1 influenza related deaths have risen to 62, with nine out of 10 of the patients having risk factors and many died after prolonged intensive care hospitalization.

Mass flu vaccination has been ongoing since late April and 2 million doses have been administered.

The health ministry reminds the public the vaccines are free for all people who go to health facilities to apply. It will not reject anyone, said the MoH, which said there in sufficient quantity to the population that needs it.

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