PAHO/WHO supports Panama's health response after magnitude 7.5 earthquake

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and World Health Organization (WHO) is coordinating with Panama’s Ministry of Health (MINSA) to support the health sector response following the magnitude 7.5 earthquake that struck the country on October 9, according to a press release. The quake affected health facilities and temporarily disrupted some health services in several parts of the country. PAHO/WHO is working with national authorities to identify priority areas for technical cooperation. The Organization aims to address health needs resulting from the disaster. Assessments are ongoing to determine the extent of the damage and response needs.

According to preliminary information from MINSA and its Health Emergency Operations Center (CODES), 29 health facilities have been affected across eight provinces and the Ngäbe-Buglé Indigenous Region. Most remain operational, although some have sustained structural and nonstructural damage. Several facilities have undergone preventive evacuations or temporarily relocated health services. Others have experienced disruptions to essential utilities. The Government of Panama declared a state of national emergency on October 10 following the previous day’s earthquake.

Affected health facilities have been reported in Coclé, Colón, Chiriquí, Herrera, Los Santos, Panamá, Panamá Oeste, and Veraguas, as well as in the Ngäbe-Buglé Indigenous Region. At several facilities, health services have been temporarily relocated to outdoor areas, tents, or temporary modules to maintain continuity of care while assessments continue. MINSA continues to operate CODES and situation rooms in several regions. These structures monitor the impact and coordinate the health sector response. Water and power outages have also temporarily affected some health services.

Preliminary needs include safe drinking water, generators and fuel, communications equipment, portable toilets, and temporary spaces to maintain health services at affected facilities. The PAHO/WHO Country Office in Panama has activated its institutional emergency response mechanisms. It is coordinating with MINSA to support the consolidation and analysis of information, damage and needs assessments, and the identification of potential needs for technical and logistical support. PAHO/WHO is also in contact with PAHO’s Emergency Operations Center in Washington, D.C. The Organization is participating in United Nations Country Team coordination mechanisms in Panama to exchange information and monitor potential needs for cooperation.

“My solidarity goes out to the people of Panama following yesterday’s powerful earthquake. PAHO/WHO stands with national authorities as they assess the impact and health needs, and we are ready to provide any necessary support,” PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa said in a message issued on October 10.

The statement underscored the Organization’s commitment to supporting the ongoing emergency response. PAHO/WHO will continue coordinating with national authorities as assessments progress. Priorities for the health response are expected to become clearer in the days ahead.