CDC-Recommended Vaccinations for Travel to Panama

Routine Vaccinations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all travelers to Panama ensure their routine vaccinations, including MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), are current before traveling, as measles remains uncontrolled in many countries, with approximately 61% of imported measles cases occurring among citizens returning to the United States 3, 2
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccinations should be reviewed and updated for travelers to Panama 4, 5
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that influenza vaccinations are particularly important for those at high risk for complications before traveling to Panama 6, 2
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that travelers to developing countries, including Panama, should be immune to poliomyelitis before traveling 2, 7

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers to Panama due to the risk of foodborne and waterborne exposure 1, 2
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends typhoid vaccination for most travelers to Panama, especially those visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or those who enjoy "adventurous eating" 2
The American College of Physicians recommends hepatitis B vaccination for travelers who may have sexual contact with new partners, receive medical or dental treatment, or have potential exposure to blood or bodily fluids 5
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests considering rabies vaccination for travelers involved in outdoor activities, working with animals, or staying for extended periods in Panama 4
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that yellow fever vaccination is generally not required for Panama unless traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission 2

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing shoes and protective clothing when in contact with soil to prevent exposure to parasites and other pathogens in Panama 8
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises thoroughly washing hands after any soil contact in Panama 8
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that live virus vaccines, such as yellow fever, should generally be avoided in immunocompromised individuals 4
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that inactivated vaccines are usually safe and should be administered as needed for immunocompromised individuals traveling to Panama 4

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that failing to get vaccinations with enough time before travel may result in suboptimal protection, and ideally, vaccinations should start 4-6 weeks before departure 1
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that many travelers focus only on travel-specific vaccines but neglect to update routine vaccinations, which is a common pitfall to avoid 3, 2