The elimination of the mandatory use of the mask in open spaces or outdoors in Panama begins to take effect from this Monday, March 28, after the decrease in infections due to the fourth wave caused last January by the variant of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus called Omicron.
In the same sense, Dr. Alfredo Moltó, advisor to the Superior Office of the Ministry of Health (Minsa), explained that it is not only the lifting of biosecurity measures, but also vaccination.
“As a country we have made significant progress in vaccinating the population that can be vaccinated, which is from 5 years onwards,” he remarked.
He explained that in the group of 5 years and older, there is 86.7% who have one dose, 76.2% with two doses and from 16 years and older, there is 47.2% who have the third dose.
The doctor reminded the population that the elimination of the use of the mask in open places applies as long as a physical distance of at least one meter can be maintained with other people.
However, the sanitary provision of the mandatory use of the mask in closed or interior spaces, such as supermarkets, shopping centers, public transport and classrooms, is maintained.
In the case of open or outdoor spaces where physical distance of at least one meter between people cannot be maintained, such as crowds in open-air markets, lines in areas of entry to activities or facilities, concerts, stadiums, among others, it is It is necessary to use the mask as a self-care measure against the coronavirus.
Vulnerable people (adults over 60 years of age, people with chronic diseases, immunosuppressed patients, unvaccinated people or people with an incomplete vaccination schedule) should carry out an individual risk assessment, depending on the environment in which they find themselves, and consider the use of the mask in open spaces or outdoors.
