MINSA alert to Shakira concert attendees about possible measles outbreak

MINSA recommends timely attention

The statement arises after an alert issued by the New Jersey State Health Department, United States, on May 20, 2025, on a possible massive exposure to the measles virus during the Shakira concert “Women no longer cry”, which approximately 82,000 people attended.

“If you attended and present any of these symptoms, go immediately to a health establishment and report your trip of the event and assistance to the event. Potentially exposed people could develop symptoms until June 6, 2025,” said the Panamanian entity.

MINSA PANAMA HEADQUARTERS.JPEG

MINSA headquarters in Panama.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that is transmitted by air. The symptoms usually appear between 10 and 14 days after the exposure and include fever, coughing, nasal secretion, reddish eyes, throat pain and a characteristic red rashes.

The Minsa reiterates the importance of keeping up to date with the measles vaccination scheme throughout the population from the first year of life, since this is the most effective tool to prevent the disease.

It is also recommended that every person traveling abroad is completely vaccinated. In the case of children under one year old who have not yet received the vaccine, it is suggested to consult with their pediatrician to evaluate the risk of exposure.