Health authorities are sounding the alarm as the country faces an unprecedented surge in respiratory viruses. Since January 1, 2024, at least eight different respiratory viruses have been actively circulating, including COVID-19, multiple strains of influenza, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza, and metapneumovirus.

Significant Incidence Rates

Data shows that COVID-19 is present in 22% of the samples tested, highlighting the continuing impact of the pandemic. Recent surveillance indicates that six viruses were simultaneously active in May, including influenza A (H1N1) PDM09 and influenza B Victoria.

In the last week of May, health authorities reported 29 suspected cases of acute respiratory infections (IRA), bringing the total to 630 suspected and 94 confirmed cases for the first five months of the year. Alarmingly, 77% of the confirmed cases were detected in children under 10, with Santiago and Santo Domingo Este being the most affected provinces.

оградфорен Health Measures

The Epidemiological Bulletin number 22, issued on June 1, shows that in the previous week, 91 samples were analyzed, with 22.2% testing positive for SARS-COV-2. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination, respiratory hygiene, and diagnostic capacity to control the spread.

Dengue and Malaria Updates

The same bulletin highlights 31 suspected and one confirmed case of dengue, with a national total of 898 suspected and 117 confirmed cases. The incidence is highest in the Mirabal sisters province. Additionally, there were 462 suspected and 8 confirmed cases of malaria last week, with an overall total of 12,561 suspected and 300 confirmed cases this year. The highest incidence is recorded in San Juan.

Expert Advice

Public Health experts advise maintaining vigilance and follow-up for febrile cases in high-risk areas. They emphasize the critical role of early diagnosis, timely treatment, and vector control in managing these outbreaks.