The Public Health Minister, Víctor Atallah, stated that the Dominican Republic faces no risk of an influenza epidemic. This statement is based on the robust epidemiological surveillance system and the constant preventive actions implemented in the country.
Strengthening the surveillance system
Atallah highlighted that the Ministry of Public Health has invested in improving early outbreak detection. In past seasons, such as the winter of 2023, isolated cases of influenza A and B were reported, but the rapid response prevented escalations. Data from the National Epidemiological Bulletin indicate that incidence rates remain below epidemic thresholds, with fewer than 500 weekly cases during seasonal peaks.
Ongoing preventive measures against the influenza epidemic
Historical context and key statistics
Historically, the Dominican Republic has dealt with influenza waves, such as the 2009 H1N1 outbreak, which caused 87 deaths according to official records. However, since then, annual vaccination campaigns have reduced hospitalizations by 40%, according to PAHO reports. This year, more than 1.2 million free doses have been distributed in health centers, prioritizing vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
- Mass vaccination in schools and communities.
- Monitoring at borders and airports for global variants.
- Public education on hygiene and mask use during peak season.
Expert opinions and recommendations
Epidemiology experts, such as Dr. Roberto Lizardo of the National Health Service, support Atallah’s position. “The influenza epidemic is prevented with active surveillance,” Lizardo said in recent forums. They recommend the population practice frequent hand washing, avoid crowds, and get vaccinated annually, especially with the circulation of subtypes such as H3N2.
These strategies have kept influenza test positivity below 5% in national laboratories. The minister emphasized that any alert signal would be detected immediately thanks to the network of 300 surveillance posts across the territory.
In summary, the sustained commitment to epidemiological surveillance ensures that the Dominican Republic remains protected from an influenza epidemic. Citizens must follow preventive guidelines to sustain these achievements.
