Also, scandals linked to the death of 34 newborns at the San Lorenzo de Los Mina Maternity Hospital, the abduction and subsequent recovery of a newborn baby girl, and the discovery of newborn corpses scattered in a cemetery in Santo Domingo East captured the public’s attention. They caused the country’s maternity centers to be under scrutiny.

At least six epidemiological alerts were issued this year, including one in May and another in November linked to the risk of diseases arising from flooding as a consequence of atmospheric phenomena; two for an increased incidence of respiratory viruses, including one at the end of December for the presence of the new JN-1 variant of COVID-19; others for advanced cases of measles and chikungunya in the region, although the country did not register any of both cases.

Non-communicable diseases

Non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, traffic events, and mental health conditions, continued to increase in the country amidst voices of concern from specialists.

As part of the actions aimed at strengthening prevention and health promotion and encouraging healthy living and thus impacting these indicators, the Minister of Health intensified his strategy of the “Ruta de la Salud: cambia tu estilo de vida” (Health Route: change your lifestyle), which takes medical and educational care to the different provinces of the country.

This year, 2023, 31 of these activities were completed, and 1,400,000,50 people benefited throughout the country, according to information provided by the Minister of Health, Dr. Daniel Rivera, who heads the activities.

The youngest

The Contact Center “Cuidad tu Salud Mental” of the Ministry of Public Health shows the impact of mental health problems in the country and its attention requirements.

Its latest report indicates that of the 6,377 calls received, 67% are from people between 21 and 40 years old who express sadness, anxiety, anguish, insomnia, and anger, among other ailments, including minors, who constitute 10% of those who demand these services.

Of the calls received at the center, which opened last March 16, to date, 60% correspond to sadness, 50% to anxiety, 49% to anguish, 39% to insomnia, 19% to anger, 17% to lack of appetite, 17% constant worry, 16% suicidal ideation and 14% imitation and feelings of guilt.

Medical conflicts

The conflicts between the Dominican Medical Association (CMD), the authorities of the National Social Security System, and the Health Risk Administrators (ARS) remained latent for a good part of the year.

This led the medical profession to exhaust a calendar of marches, work stoppages, and paralyzations of services to several ARSs, demanding changes in the social security system, including increased health coverage for the population and the rates and fees received for services rendered.

The National Social Security Council (CNSS) recently issued a new resolution increasing coverage and fees.

Last December 8, the CMD changed its board of directors, with Dr. Waldo Ariel Suero assuming the presidency of the guild for the sixth time, replacing Dr. Senén Caba.

Cholera and Covid

The year began with an outbreak of cholera, which spread mainly to different sectors of Greater Santo Domingo. In contrast, in the last quarter, another outbreak was registered in Barahona communities. This year, the country introduced its vaccination with the acquisition of 85 thousand vaccines, which have been applied in high-risk populations through a protocol developed for this purpose.

The COVID-19 virus, although still circulating in the country, maintained a low incidence, except for a slight peak in the number of cases registered this year. At the end of December, the circulation of the new highly contagious JN.1 variant was detected in the country, which prompted the Ministry of Public Health to issue a new epidemiological alert for respiratory viruses.

After over two years of issuing daily information bulletins, the health authorities issued the report once a week last March.

Dengue epidemic

The most significant stress to the hospital system was generated by the dengue epidemic, which continued for several months, especially in Greater Santo Domingo, where the high demand for medical attention exceeded the capacity of the leading pediatric hospitals, forcing the National Health Service (SNS) to set up a network of beds in different health centers.

As of mid-December, corresponding to the 50th epidemiological week, the total number of accumulated suspected cases detected by the system is 24,735, with 23 confirmed deaths, for a case fatality rate of 0.1 percent.

Under surveillance

Reports from the Epidemiology Directorate of the Ministry of Public Health indicate that during the first 11 months of 2023, 116 cases of cholera, 19,467 cases of dengue, 215 cases of malaria, 564 cases of leptospirosis; 23 cases of diphtheria; 29 cases of tetanus in non-neonatal ages; 10 cases of pertussis and six cases of meningococcal disease were reported to the system.

In addition to 150 maternal deaths and 2,700 infant deaths. The National Health Service reports an 11% reduction in neonatal mortality this year compared to 2022, following the implementation of the Neonatal Mortality Reduction Acceleration Plan.

New coverage approved

At the end of the year, the National Social Security Council (CNSS) announced the approval of new coverage, including that of outpatient medicines, which increased from 8,000 to 12,000 pesos per year for members of the Family Health Insurance (SFS) of the Contributive Regime.

Resolution No. 581-03 took this decision, including coverage for 70 new procedures, biopsies, and new approaches to reduce surgical complications and hospital stays.

In addition to an increase in the monthly per capita of the Family Health Insurance (SFS) of the Contributory Regime (RC) of RD$128.08 charged to the People’s Health Care Account, from RD$1,555.14 to RD$1,683.22 and a 50% reduction in the co-payment of the SFS of the Contributory Regime for hospitalization services, cesarean sections, surgeries, renal transplants and other high-cost illnesses.

There was a 40% increase in medical fees for procedures, a 50% increase in inpatient consultations, and a 7% increase in diagnostic tests and examination costs. There was also a 15% increase in the use of rooms, equipment, and rooms in clinics and hospitals.

Six Grenadians awarded in the King’s New Year Honours

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“It is important to seek medical attention if you take over-the-counter medications for heartburn more than twice a week and also if you experience severe or frequent GERD symptoms”

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Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Public Health in the Dominican Republic is focusing on surveillance and early detection of the JN.1 sub-variant, with three positive cases identified so far. As the holiday season brings increased travel and gatherings, there’s an anticipated rise in virus circulation. However, the Ministry emphasizes that while the JN.1 variant spreads quickly, it is not expected to be severe. Despite this, caution is advised, especially for those with underlying health conditions like HIV, cancer, asthma, and hypertension.

Dr. Eladio Pérez, Vice Minister of Collective Health, urges the public to practice self-care, highlighting the increased risk of acute respiratory viruses during this period due to temperature changes and people’s movements. The Ministry’s recommendations include avoiding poorly ventilated spaces, regular handwashing, mask-wearing if flu symptoms are present, and mask use in healthcare settings. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins, along with good hydration, is also recommended to boost the immune system.

Regarding COVID-19, the Ministry reports 73 active cases with no hospitalizations, according to the latest epidemiological bulletin. The public is encouraged to get vaccinated at fixed posts, where influenza vaccines and other schedule biologicals are available.

On the dengue front, Dr. Pérez noted a significant decrease in 122 municipalities, with no probable cases in 54. Although 769 new cases were reported in week 50, bringing the year’s total to 24,735, there have been no additional deaths since week 46. The Ministry continues to monitor these health concerns and reminds the public to follow recommended precautions.

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Public Health in the Dominican Republic has issued an epidemiological alert due to the circulation of several respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Influenza A (H1N1), and various strains like pdm09, adenovirus, and Influenza B Victoria. The provinces most affected are Barahona, Duarte, La Romana, Santiago, Santo Domingo, and the National District.

Recent reports identified COVID-19 variants EG.5.1, FL.1x, and JN.1. As of epidemiological week 51 of 2023, there have been 1,226,613 reported cases of upper tract acute respiratory infections (ARI) and 246,361 lower tract ARI cases, which are lower than last year’s figures for the same period.

Public Health advises vulnerable groups, especially those under five and over 65, healthcare workers, and individuals with comorbidities, to get vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19. They also recommend completing vaccination schedules and avoiding crowded indoor gatherings. In case of illness, physical distancing, wearing a mask, and visiting the nearest health center are advised.

The Ministry also urges healthcare centers to strengthen surveillance for influenza and prioritize monitoring acute respiratory infections (SARI) to track epidemiological changes and viral trends. Timely reporting and investigation of suspicious cases, rapid sample submission to labs, and public education on preventive measures against influenza and COVID-19 are crucial.

As of December 2, 2023, 73% of genetic sequences in the GISAID Initiative were from lineages descended from the XBB variant, including the rapidly spreading JN.1 variant, which the WHO classified as a “variant of interest” on December 19 due to its rapid spread. Despite its high transmissibility, its health risk is comparable to other omicron subvariants.

Countries across Europe, Australia, Asia, and Canada have reported exponential growth of JN.1, accompanied by an increase in hospitalizations. The WHO asserts that existing vaccines should provide protection against this JN.1 subvariant. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection and vaccination status, according to the CDC.

The following statement was issued by the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on Saturday:

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital is again experiencing a surge in the number of patients presenting to the Accident and Emergency Department for treatment with various medical complaints.

At 8 a.m. Saturday, 38, patients were waiting to be seen by our medical team.

The current situation has led to increased wait times in the department. We’re reminding the public, if you present to the AED at this time with medical conditions which are not deemed life-threatening or an emergency, it is possible you may experience an extended wait.

Life-threatening conditions, under AED’s Triage System will continue to be seen and treated immediately. These include patients who for example, have life, limb or sight threatening complaints, gunshot wounds, heart attacks, active seizure activity or a patient who needs resuscitation.

If you are unsure about your medical complaint to determine if you need to present to the Accident and Emergency Department, please call our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS/Help Desk) at 536- 4800 using regular or whatsapp calls from 9am to 12 midnight during this surge.

You also have the option of visiting the 24-hour Winston Scott Polyclinic at Jemmotts Lane, St Michael for treatment or your private General Practitioner.

We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and we will continue to provide updates on the situation.

(PR)

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Santo Domingo.-Health Minister Daniel Rivera has confirmed that the Dominican Republic is concluding the year within a safe range in terms of dengue infections. Despite the typical increase in cases expected for December, there has been no outbreak, indicating effective control and management of the disease.

The Ministry of Public Health recently introduced new health regulations and updated care protocols for dengue management. This proactive approach is in response to an alert issued by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) that extends until August 2024, preparing the health system for potential future challenges.

According to Vice Minister of Collective Health Eladio Pérez, there has been a significant decrease in dengue cases. Epidemiological week 59 saw only 888 new cases, a reduction from weeks with over 2,000 reported cases. In total, the country has diagnosed 23,928 cases of dengue and recorded 23 deaths this year.

The ministry has also launched several new health documents and regulations. These include operational guidelines for community collaboration in malaria elimination, dietary guides with a focus on life competition, updates on HIV AIDS diagnosis and treatment for children, and various manuals and protocols for managing other health conditions.

These comprehensive measures demonstrate the Dominican Republic’s commitment to improving public health, not only in managing dengue but across a spectrum of health issues. The introduction of these guidelines and protocols is a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services and ensuring the well-being of the population.

Charrandass Persaud – the then governing APNU+AFC coalition parliamentarian who set in motion the virtual collapse of the David Granger-led administration by voting for a People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC)-sponsored no-confidence motion- has fallen seriously ill and was Wednesday evacuated to Canada, according to medical sources. One of the sources said Mr Persaud was suffering ...

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic is closely observing the new JN.1 variant of COVID-19, which has been declared a variant of interest by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to its rapid spread worldwide. Eladio Pérez, the Vice Minister of Collective Health at the Ministry of Public Health, stated that while the JN.1 variant has not been detected in the country, new sequencing of samples will be conducted this week to determine its presence.

Virologist Robert Paulino emphasized the importance of continued virus surveillance in the nation. He anticipates a potential increase in COVID-19 cases in the coming weeks, partly due to tourist influx from the United States for the Christmas holidays. Paulino notes that JN.1 is a subvariant of Omicron, known for causing higher cases and hospitalizations, particularly among the elderly. He expressed concern over the lack of new vaccines specifically targeting Omicron, making populations more vulnerable.

The JN.1 variant, a subvariant of BA.286, has shown the highest growth advantage among all detected variants. However, its emergence does not necessarily signal a new wave of the virus, but its proportion in total COVID-19 cases is rising.

With the Christmas holidays approaching, and the likelihood of family and social gatherings, it’s recommended for individuals with cold symptoms to wear masks, maintain isolation, and for health authorities to monitor case trends to manage booster vaccines effectively.

The WHO has classified JN.1 as a separate variant of interest from its original BA.2.86 lineage, acknowledging its rapid spread but considering the additional global public health risk as low. Despite this, the WHO cautions that JN.1 could increase respiratory infections in many countries during the northern hemisphere’s winter season. The organization also confirms that current vaccines continue to offer protection against severe illness and death from JN.1 and other circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants.

Infectologist Clemente Terrero has warned about the heightened risk of respiratory viruses, including influenza, syncytial virus, and COVID-19. He advises the public to adhere to preventive measures during the Christmas and New Year holidays, such as influenza vaccination, frequent hand washing, social distancing, and mask-wearing for those with flu-like symptoms.

“Food poisoning is a syndrome caused by consuming food contaminated with microorganisms, toxins, or chemicals. It is associated with more than 250 pathogens, particularly when food is mishandled,” the specialist explained.

The foods most commonly linked to food poisoning include undercooked or improperly reheated meats, eggs, creams, mayonnaise, unpasteurized milk, seafood, fruits, and vegetables.

She noted that symptoms of food poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, general malaise, and sometimes fever, usually appear abruptly and can start within six hours after consuming contaminated food.

“A sign of food poisoning is that multiple people who consumed the same contaminated source are affected. Symptoms typically last a few days, and most people recover well without medical treatment. However, in immunocompromised individuals (like cancer patients, those on steroids, or other immunosuppressive medications), and patients with comorbidities like heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes, the illness can be more severe or prolonged, requiring specialized medical care,” stated the specialist from the center accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI).

According to international food safety standards, Dr. Castillo recommends eight tips to reduce the risk of contracting foodborne illnesses: wash hands and surfaces where food will be handled; wash fruits and vegetables; separate foods to avoid cross-contamination between fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, poultry, and eggs; wash utensils that have been in contact with these foods, especially if they were raw.

Additionally, she advises cooking food to the correct temperature; ensuring that reheated food is completely cooked or heated before consumption; not leaving perishable foods out of the refrigerator for more than an hour; and not marinating foods on the kitchen counter, instead marinating in the refrigerator.

About CEMDOE:

CEMDOE is an outpatient medical institution accredited by the Joint Commission International. It focuses on providing comprehensive, safe, and quality care centered on the patient and their family. The center offers over 45 specialties, a clinical laboratory, a state-of-the-art imaging center, endoscopy, a multipurpose operating room, hemodialysis, and a specialized diabetic foot area. CEMDOE is part of INTEGRA, a health asset manager.