Panama: Government announces second stage of reopening as of June 1 /update 13

Event

The Panamanian government stated on Tuesday, May 26, that the second phase of easing of restrictions introduced due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic will start on Monday, June 1. During the second phase, the construction, pharmaceutical, non-metallic mining, electricity, electronics, and textile sectors will be allowed to resume operations. Additionally, sporting facilities, parks, and places of worship will be allowed to reopen at a maximum of 25 percent capacity. The national quarantine order will be lifted from June 1; however, social distancing rules and the nighttime curfew between 19:00 and 05:00 (local time) will remain in place. 

Panamanian aviation authorities announced that international passenger flights will remain suspended until Monday, June 22. Domestic flights also remain suspended with no confirmed date of resumption. Humanitarian, medical, and repatriation flights are exempt from the suspension.

Furthermore, it remains mandatory for all individuals to wear face masks in Panama City outside of their accommodation. It is encouraged to wear face masks everywhere else. Reports indicate that some pharmacy and supermarket chains have stated customers are required to wear masks in these establishments.

As of Wednesday, May 27, authorities have confirmed 11,447 cases of COVID-19 and 313 associated deaths in Panama. Further international spread of the virus is to be expected over the near term. 

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.