Health Ministry boosts Monkeypox surveillance

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Health announced that no new monkeypox cases have been reported since April 2024. Despite this, the Ministry has heightened epidemiological surveillance as a preventive measure following a World Health Organization emergency declaration urging countries to take precautionary steps.

As of week 33 in 2024, the country has recorded a total of eight confirmed monkeypox cases, with no signs of community transmission. The Ministry confirmed that vaccines are available, and over 2,000 people, particularly those in high-risk groups, have been vaccinated since 2022.

The public is advised to avoid direct skin contact with individuals showing smallpox-like rashes and to be cautious with items used by infected persons. Regular hand washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitizers is also recommended to reduce the risk of infection. Monkeypox typically presents with rashes or lesions, especially on the face, hands, and feet.