Central America sees surge in vaccine-preventable disease deaths in 2026

Honduras reported a sharp rise in pertussis cases, with 175 infections recorded by mid‑June 2026 and 14 deaths, largely among infants. Health officials highlighted that the disease is preventable through vaccination and urged higher immunisation coverage, especially for pregnant women and young children.

In Panama, health authorities noted 47 influenza‑related deaths in 2026, most of them among unvaccinated seniors and infants. The report stressed that none of the deceased had received the seasonal flu shot, and called for increased vaccination and preventive measures for high‑risk groups.