The Ministry of Public Health reported three cases of dengue this week, bringing the annual total to 43, a 35% decrease compared to the previous year. However, it reported six cases of malaria and 18 infant deaths, figures that are causing concern within Public Health and demanding enhanced surveillance.
Details of Dengue and Malaria Cases
The three new positive dengue cases are concentrated in provinces in the south and east of the country, where rainfall favors the proliferation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Public Health is maintaining fumigation campaigns, but experts warn that climate change could reverse this positive trend. Regarding malaria, the six cases originate from border areas with Haiti, which are endemic for Plasmodium falciparum, according to historical data from the Epidemiological Bulletin.
Historical Context and Comparisons in Public Health
Reduction in Dengue Compared to Previous Years
In 2023, Public Health recorded more than 1,000 severe cases of dengue, with outbreaks in Santo Domingo and San Juan. The current 35% decrease is attributed to early interventions, such as the elimination of breeding sites, although 43 cumulative cases persist. Historically, post-hurricane peaks have caused infections to spike up to 10 times.
- Three weekly dengue cases: Under relative control.
- Six cases of malaria: Risk at borders.
- 18 infant deaths: Include pneumonia and malnutrition.
Infant Deaths: Underlying Factors
The 18 infant deaths reported by Public Health correspond to children under five years of age, mainly due to respiratory infections and diarrhea. Organizations such as PAHO note that the Dominican Republic exceeds the regional average in infant mortality, with 25 per thousand live births in 2024. Background records reveal that in 2022, 32 similar cases were counted in the first quarter, driving reforms in pediatrics.
Public Health authorities emphasize the need for vaccination and sanitation. Official statements indicate that multidisciplinary teams monitor these indicators weekly to prevent epidemics.
The reduction in dengue is encouraging, but malaria and infant deaths demand immediate action, according to consulted epidemiologists.
In rural areas, where Public Health concentrates its efforts, malaria affects migrants, while infant pneumonia strikes due to a lack of timely access. PAHO statistics confirm that fumigations reduced dengue by 40% in past campaigns, a model that can be replicated.
This Public Health bulletin underlines the importance of community prevention in the face of three cases of dengue, six of malaria, and 18 infant deaths—figures that, although contained, are being closely watched.
