The Health Minister said that the possible relaxation of the use of masks would be applied in open places and where there are few people.
The Minister of Health, Luis Francisco Sucre, said that Panama's goal is to make the mandatory use of masks more flexible as of December.
"We are optimistic, but as scientists we know that we can have some regrowth ... you have to take care of yourself and get vaccinated. What we aspire is that in December possibly already in open places, where there are few people, we will not need to use masks."
However, Sucre recommended continuing with the use of face masks even though the National Government eliminates the obligation, so that care in the population is prolonged.
Previously, the President of the Republic, Laurentino Cortizo, said that if the biosecurity measures continue to be complied with, and the vaccination strategy is implemented, the new year could be celebrated without the need to use masks in open spaces.
To date, Panama accumulates 469,440 cases of COVID-19. According to the epidemiological report of the Ministry of Health, of that total, 459,657 patients have recovered, while 2,508 cases of COVID-19 remain active.
After the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was known that the use of masks continues to be essential as they represent protection above 80%.
In Panama, 75.6% of the population, who can be vaccinated against COVID-19, have completed their vaccination schedule with two doses, and booster doses will soon be applied.
"We are optimistic, but as scientists we know that we can have some regrowth ... you have to take care of yourself and get vaccinated. What we aspire is that in December possibly already in open places, where there are few people, we will not need to use masks."
However, Sucre recommended continuing with the use of face masks even though the National Government eliminates the obligation, so that care in the population is prolonged.
Previously, the President of the Republic, Laurentino Cortizo, said that if the biosecurity measures continue to be complied with, and the vaccination strategy is implemented, the new year could be celebrated without the need to use masks in open spaces.
To date, Panama accumulates 469,440 cases of COVID-19. According to the epidemiological report of the Ministry of Health, of that total, 459,657 patients have recovered, while 2,508 cases of COVID-19 remain active.
After the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was known that the use of masks continues to be essential as they represent protection above 80%.
In Panama, 75.6% of the population, who can be vaccinated against COVID-19, have completed their vaccination schedule with two doses, and booster doses will soon be applied.