After balancing the contagion figures, Cortizo explained that the opening of block 2 was one of the factors that contributed to the increase in the positivity rate, however it was necessary to maintain a balance between health, social and economic issues.

He maintained that the increase has occurred due to the number of tests that are carried out in the provinces of Panama and Panama Oeste, with a higher report of positives.

The Republic of Panama does not make up figures, when the health team goes out to give a press conference that is the figure, we do not hide figures in the Republic of Panama, and the tests have increased significantly, we have gone from around 300 tests at a given time to 3,200 tests and we want to reach 4,000, said Cortizo during his speech at an event in San Miguelito.

Cortizo expressed that the percentage of positivity could drop, if 70% or 80% of the tests being carried out in Panama and Panama West are concentrated in other provinces of the interior with fewer cases such as Los Santos, Herrera or Coclé, – but Panama does not want to do that.

Government strategies against COVID-19

On the other hand, the Chief Executive explained that the Unified Traceability Teams (EUT) are going from house to house identifying positive cases, through swab tests, tracking contacts, isolating them and offering them help by giving a kit, which contains an oximeter, thermometer, basic medicines (acetaminophen and others), masks, alcohol gel and lenses.

Regarding antiviral drugs, Cortizo added that Remdesivir is being purchased, in addition to its equivalents in China and Russia to have it here in Panama.

COVID-19 patient rooms and hospitals

Cortizo said they seek to decongest hospitals, such as the Hospital Complex of the Social Security Fund (CSS).

In this sense, he expressed that the Figali convention center is scheduled to be available to the health authorities this Sunday, July 19, for its operation with around 160 additional beds.

The Integrated Hospital Panama Solidario has 29 beds available and 5 in the ICU, according to a count from yesterday, Wednesday, July 16.

They also seek to adapt the gymnasium of the Specialized Technical Institute (ITSE), for about 130 beds.