Individuals currently suffering from respiratory illnesses are more likely to be infected with influenza or COVID-19, the two types of respiratory viruses that have been most prevalent in the country in recent weeks.

Among mosquito-borne diseases, malaria continues to be the most prevalent in the Dominican population, with 435 suspected cases and 12 confirmed cases detected in the first week of June, bringing the total number of suspected cases and 387 confirmed cases so far this year to 13,359.

According to the report for epidemiological week 23, which covers the first seven days of June, 72 samples of respiratory viruses were processed at the Dr. Defilló National Reference Laboratory in Public Health, identifying the circulation of Influenza A (H1N1)pdm09, SARS-CoV-2, and Parainfluenza.

The positivity rates were 4.4% for influenza, 2.9% for SARS-CoV-2 (the COVID-19 virus), and 4.3% for other respiratory viruses. In contrast, no positive cases of syncytial virus (RSV) were reported, the report states, which also highlights that these results indicate the presence of different respiratory viral agents in the population, underscoring the importance of maintaining active and sustained surveillance.

A lot of hygiene

The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) reports that it continues to implement comprehensive measures to reduce the transmission of respiratory diseases, prioritizing early detection, timely treatment, and effective control.

Additionally, the public is reminded to maintain frequent hand washing, wear masks when around people with symptoms, and disinfect surfaces to prevent outbreaks. They are also encouraged to seek medical attention if they experience respiratory problems or other health conditions.

Regarding sentinel surveillance for acute respiratory infections (ARIs), it is reported that 25 suspected cases were reported in the last week, with no confirmed cases, for a cumulative total of 676 suspected cases and 99 confirmed cases so far this year.

Of the total confirmed cases, 76% were in children under 10 years of age. Acute respiratory infection manifests with the sudden onset of a fever of 38°C or higher and respiratory symptoms in the previous 10 days. It can progress to respiratory distress, seizures, or ventilatory failure, which, without prompt intervention, can lead to death.

12 confirmed cases

During the first week of June, the epidemiological surveillance system confirmed 12 cases of malaria and one case of dengue.

Regarding malaria, it is noteworthy that 435 suspected cases and 12 confirmed cases have been reported, bringing the cumulative total to 13,359 suspected cases and 387 confirmed cases so far this year. According to the Ministry of Public Health, this represents a significant reduction compared to the same period in 2024, with a 33% decrease in confirmed cases.

The report indicates that 31.5% of confirmed malaria cases in the Dominican Republic are Haitian, which has prompted increased active case-finding in migrant and agricultural communities.

The Ministry of Public Health reports that it is strengthening strategies for early detection, timely treatment, and vector control to advance the elimination of diseases. These efforts aim to create an effective and sustained response to eradicate malaria in the country.

Dengue on the decline

Between January 1 and January 7, 38 suspected cases of dengue fever were reported, along with one confirmed case, for a total of 947 suspected cases and 120 confirmed cases so far this year.

The report indicates that, compared to the same period in 2024, there was an 88.1% decrease in suspected cases and an 87% decrease in confirmed cases, reflecting a significant reduction in the incidence of the disease.

As of epidemiological week 20 of 2025, the Region of the Americas reported 2,902,500 suspected cases of dengue, with a cumulative incidence of 286 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. This figure represents a 71% decrease compared to the same period in 2024 and a 13% decrease compared to the average of the previous five years.

Leptospirosis

Another disease under surveillance is leptospirosis, which is transmitted by a bacterium that infects humans when they come into contact with the urine of infected animals and are exposed to contaminated water.

In the country, during epidemiological week 23, three suspected cases of leptospirosis were reported, bringing the total to 205 suspected cases and 23 confirmed cases for the first six months of the year.

27%, or approximately 55 cases, are patients of Haitian nationality, and 73%, or approximately 149 cases, are Dominicans.

Among the prevention strategies being developed by the Ministry of Health are rodent control and sanitation measures, including improving access to drinking water, reducing exposure to stagnant water, and promoting good hygiene practices. Animal vaccination campaigns are also being conducted, particularly in areas where livestock can serve as a reservoir for the Leptospira bacteria.

The report, issued by the Epidemiology Department (DIEPI), indicates that 72 samples were processed at the Dr. Defilló National Public Health Reference Laboratory and tested negative for common respiratory viruses, including influenza A (H1N1) pdm09, SARS-CoV-2, and parainfluenza.

There were also no new cases of leptospirosis, cholera, or COVID-19.

Regarding dengue, one confirmed case was reported. The total for the year reaches 120 confirmed cases, representing a decrease of 88.1%. There is no epidemiological alert for dengue in 2025. It is a viral disease transmitted through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Dengue is an endemic disease, with the highest incidence among children. It is recommended to keep water containers covered and avoid accumulating them in residential yards.

Malaria and Leptospirosis

Twelve positive malaria cases were reported, a 33% reduction in confirmed cases. Regarding leptospirosis, no new cases were reported this week. These are notifiable diseases monitored by the Directorate of Epidemiology.

Mortality

Three maternal deaths were reported (two Dominicans and one Haitian), for a cumulative total of 78. Regarding infant deaths, 21 were recorded, which represents a decrease compared to the 38 reported in the same epidemiological week of 2024.

Blood type “B” positive or any other type is urgently needed for Grismeily Benítez Contreras, 13 years old, who is at Dr. Robert Reid Cabral Pediatric Hospital.

The minor, who, along with her sister, suffers from a rare skin disease called epidermolysis, popularly known as “crystal skin .”

According to an admission document from the aforementioned medical center, the little girl was admitted this Friday due to severe anemia.

Little Álaia has undergone open heart surgery at CEDIMAT, and her family is requesting platelet donors for her recovery.

Those interested in donating should go to the Blood Bank at the aforementioned health center.

Health Ministry urges citizens to reinforce hygiene as virus activity remains high.

The Ministry of Public Health has called on the population to strengthen hygiene measures due to a high incidence of circulating viruses.

According to the Ministry, it is intensifying epidemiological surveillance in response to ongoing viral activity, as reported in its latest bulletin for epidemiological week 21.

Health officials noted that the number of respiratory illness cases reported so far remains within expected seasonal parameters. However, they confirmed that sentinel surveillance for respiratory viruses continues, alongside strict enforcement of national health protocols at ports, airports, and other entry points. Hospitals are also maintaining active monitoring to identify new cases.

Viruses detected in circulation

During epidemiological week 21 of 2025, the following viruses were identified: influenza A (H1N1) pdm09, SARS-CoV-2, and adenovirus. Since the beginning of the year, additional viruses have been detected, including influenza A (H3N2), influenza B (Victoria lineage), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza viruses (types 1, 2, and 3), and human metapneumovirus.

Handwashing and prevention remain key.

The Ministry is urging the public to continue practicing basic preventive measures, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water, covering their mouths when coughing, using disposable tissues, and — especially for immunocompromised or vulnerable individuals — wearing masks in enclosed or crowded spaces. Self-medication is strongly discouraged.

Recognize symptoms and seek care early.

Anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing is advised to seek care at the nearest health center. Officials highlighted that climate change, rising temperatures, and the presence of Saharan dust have altered traditional seasonal patterns of viruses, contributing to increased transmissibility.

WHO alert and Southern Hemisphere trends

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an epidemiological alert on April 17, 2025, anticipating a rise in influenza and other respiratory infections across the Southern Hemisphere. The alert encourages countries to strengthen surveillance and increase seasonal vaccination, particularly among high-risk groups.

Pest control takes center stage in the latest bulletin

This week’s health bulletin also emphasized pest control as a core strategy in global public health, essential for preventing the spread of communicable diseases and promoting safer, healthier environments.

Two new dengue cases were confirmed in week 21, bringing the 2025 total to 115. The current incidence rate stands at 2.65, representing an 87% decrease compared to the same period in 2024.

Santo Domingo.- Starting this Wednesday, the Saharan dust mass affecting the Dominican Republic will begin to subside, resulting in clearer skies and reduced atmospheric haze, according to the Dominican Meteorological Institute (Indomet).

Despite the gradual decline in dust concentration, the country will continue to experience intense heat due to limited cloud cover and warm southeasterly winds. These conditions, combined with lingering dust particles, will contribute to gray or dull skies. However, as the day progresses, a slight increase in moisture from southeast winds may lead to light, isolated showers—especially in areas such as Monte Plata, Monseñor Nouel, San Juan, and Elías Piña.

Indomet also noted that a moderate level of Saharan dust remains in the atmosphere, which, along with a high-pressure system, will limit the formation of significant cloud cover and maintain mostly sunny conditions.

Additionally, meteorologists are monitoring a non-tropical low-pressure system expected to move toward the southeastern United States over the next week. It currently has a low, 10% chance of developing into a cyclone and poses no threat to the Dominican Republic due to its distance and projected path.

Santo Domingo.- Sargassum levels in the Atlantic have reached a record-breaking 31 million tons, surpassing the previous high of 24 million, raising serious concerns among Caribbean scientists and coastal communities. Oceanographer Elena Martínez Martínez, co-founder of SOS Biotech, explained that this seaweed is now concentrated in a massive region called the Sargassum Belt, which stretches about 9,000 kilometers—nearly seven times the size of Spain. This area has expanded rapidly over the past five years.

Martínez noted that ocean currents are pushing the sargassum toward the Caribbean, intensifying its impact on the region. The phenomenon’s growth is linked to multiple factors, including rising ocean temperatures, increased atmospheric CO₂, and nutrient runoff from agricultural fertilizers. She also pointed out that Saharan dust, rich in micronutrients like iron, contributes to the problem.

Despite growing concerns, predicting the spread of sargassum remains difficult. Martínez admitted that current forecasting tools are inadequate and that sargassum has reached areas previously thought to be unaffected. For now, the main method of monitoring involves coastal sightings and emergency collection efforts to prevent it from damaging beaches.

Dominican women usually live in diverse conditions that affect their health. The most frequent are type II diabetes, breast cancer, cervix, mental health disorders, and arterial hypertension.

Addressing these problems requires comprehensive actions aimed at promoting healthy habits, which is the central theme of Bulletin number 20, published by the Ministry of Health.

Women’s health encompasses that of the entire family environment, which is why it is prioritized.

Health is a fundamental human right, and today, it is recognized that not only biology is related to health, but also social determinants, the socio-economic, environmental, and political decisions, according to the official document.

Health policies
It is considered essential in life.
Women to have integral health require regular access to medical controls, sexual and reproductive health education, and comprehensive, timely, and humanized services.

Strategies

The official document confirms that the Maternal Child Program has developed strategies aimed at enhancing the health of women.

Official actions
It works to update care protocols during pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium, strengthen emergency obstetric care and training for obstetricians and residents, and promote obstetric post-event contraception.

In addition, active monitoring of maternal mortality is conducted through the activation of provincial committees and surveillance of avoidable cases. The Ministry of Health insists that work in education in nutrition and sexual health for pregnant women, alcohol syndrome prevention campaigns Fetal (SAF), and alarm signs during pregnancy.

Accompaniment in the stage of gestation, mainly in the communities of limited economic resources.

Gaps persist
Gaps and challenges persist. In 2023, a consensus was established to prioritize the health of women with actions that involve education, economic development, social protection, and the development of a normative framework. For this, the effort of all sectors of society is required, including women themselves as active protagonists of the change, the Ministry of Health assures in their argument.

The institutional response to women’s health challenges extends to the entire national health system, insists public health

While official health data from the Ministry of Health points to a downward trend in major health indicators, dengue cases remain under watch. Epidemiologically, high incidence rates are not expected at this time, yet during epidemiological week 19, two dengue cases were confirmed in five-year-olds—one in Puerto Plata, the other in San Cristóbal. The past four weeks have seen 13 recorded cases, marking a 73.5% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. So far in 2025, 94 cases have been confirmed, with the highest concentration in Espaillat, Puerto Plata, and Valverde.

Malaria Continues to Affect Young Men

From weeks 1 to 19 of 2025, 194 cases of malaria have been confirmed, with 57% affecting men, primarily aged 10 to 39 years. The highest concentration is in San Juan and Azua, though imported cases have been reported in Elías Piña, Santo Domingo, La Altagracia, Monte Cristi, Dajabón, and Sánchez Ramírez.

Leptospirosis Cases Confirmed Across 12 Provinces

As of epidemiological week 19, 22 cases of leptospirosis have been confirmed, with the highest numbers in La Altagracia and San Cristóbal. The disease has spread across 12 provinces.

Neonatal Mortality Remains a Challenge

Infant mortality figures reveal 23 deaths during epidemiological week 19, bringing the total for 2025 to 635 deaths—172 fewer than in the same period in 2024. The vast majority occur within the first 28 days of life, with neonatal mortality proving the hardest to reduce.

Maternal Mortality Disproportionately Impacts Santiago and Santo Domingo

During the same week, four maternal deaths were recorded from La Vega, Monte Plata, María Trinidad Sánchez, and Santo Domingo. The total count for 2025 stands at 66 maternal deaths, with 34% concentrated in Santiago and Santo Domingo. Of these, 53% were Dominican women, while 47% were Haitian.

Region of the Americas Sees Maternal Mortality Decline, Yet Targets Unmet

In 2023, maternal mortality in the Americas reached 7,850 deaths, reflecting a 15.7% decrease compared to 2000. Improved access to essential healthcare services has been credited for this decline, though official figures continue to spark debate. However, the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) in the region remains at 59 deaths per 100,000 live births, still far above the regional target of 30 deaths per 100,000 live births set by the Pan American Health Organization’s Sustainable Health Agenda.

The downpours can also cause other problems that must be prevented.

The agency also reported a total of 88 confirmed cases of dengue fever. The cumulative incidence is 2.37.

The Ministry of Health confirmed the information in its weekly bulletin for week 18.

No new cases of malaria were reported this epidemiological week, but there have been 192 confirmed cases and 9,895 suspected cases this year.

The cumulative incidence per 100,000 inhabitants is 5.16. Similarly, no cases of leptospirosis were registered this week, and there have been 22 confirmed cases this year, with an incidence of 0.60.

Maternal deaths

During this epidemiological week 18, four maternal deaths have been confirmed, corresponding to three women of Dominican nationality and one Haitian woman.

The cumulative total up to week 18 is 58 deaths, representing a 12.1% decrease in fatalities compared to 2024.

About infant deaths, 38 deaths were reported this week.

44 deaths have been reported so far this year, reflecting a decrease in this indicator. The cumulative total for this year is 605 deaths, while last year’s cumulative total to date was 754 deaths, as can be seen in the data from the Ministry of Health.