Panama's health officials have issued a call to citizens preparing to travel to the 2026 FIFA World Cup to ensure they are vaccinated against measles. With the tournament taking place across Mexico, Canada, and the United States—countries currently experiencing a significant number of measles cases—the Ministry of Health (Minsa) of Panama is proactive in addressing health concerns. The last reported case of measles in Panama was in 1995, making this outbreak a critical issue as many citizens may travel for the event.

In response to this health alert, the Health Ministry has provided guidelines to travel agencies, encouraging them to inform travelers about the importance of vaccination. While receiving the measles vaccine is not mandatory, the government is aiming to prevent any potential incidence of the disease among Panamanians traveling abroad. Furthermore, the Ministry has started offering the vaccine at no cost to those who seek the International Certificate of Vaccination, which is also necessary for travelers heading to areas where yellow fever is endemic.

This public health initiative represents a broader strategy to protect citizens from diseases that have been largely eradicated in Panama but pose a threat due to international travel. The emphasis on vaccination not only aims to safeguard health but also to ensure that those attending the World Cup can do so without the risk of contracting or spreading measles during their travel experience, thereby contributing to the overall health security of the region during the international event.