Santo Domingo.- Health Minister Víctor Atallah emphasized a significant reduction in dengue cases, attributing this success to coordinated efforts by the Ministry of Health (MSP), other institutions, and the active involvement of the community in prevention measures. Despite predictions by PAHO/WHO of increased dengue incidence due to climate conditions, the Dominican Republic’s timely actions have effectively curbed the disease.
Atallah praised community participation in prevention, stating it was crucial in controlling dengue. He also urged continued efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding sites to prevent the spread of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, responsible for dengue transmission.
The National Epidemiological Bulletin for week 40 reported no new dengue cases, a marked improvement from last year when 110 cases and two deaths were recorded. Other diseases like leptospirosis, malaria, and non-communicable diseases also saw significant control. The bulletin highlighted improvements in public health surveillance, particularly through the work of the Dr. Defilló National Public Health Reference Laboratory, which has enhanced pathogen identification and response times.