Epidemiological alert due to heavy rains in the country

Santo Domingo, DR
Due to the heavy rains that occurred last Friday, November 4, the General Directorate of Epidemiology (Digepi) presented a warning for the control and prevention of possible diseases that may arise.

Given the forecasts made by the National Meteorological Office (Onamet), on the follow-up of the rains, Digepi gave the warning about the diseases caused by the bad weather: wound and skin infections, leptospirosis, gastrointestinal problems (in case of consumption of contaminated water), mosquito bites, traumas, injuries, tetanus, acute respiratory infections, conjunctivitis, and even Covid-19.

At the same time, it gave recommendations for the general population and health authorities to take early measures to prevent the situation and strengthen response and control measures.

Digepi urged the population to stay away from contaminated water, avoid garbage accumulation, and continue applying hygiene measures at work and home.

It also urged Provincial Health Directorates and Health Area Directorates to organize rapid response teams in collaboration with municipalities and to intervene in possible outbreaks in emergency areas.

Other recommendations to the population
Public Health also recommends that the population use adequate means of protection when exposure is necessary (plastic boots, gloves).

Eliminate the presence of rats and mice in homes and common or recreational areas, wash canned food, protect drinking water, wash hands after using the toilet and before each meal, cook food and wash fruits and vegetables before eating them, and cover stored water.