Three provinces account for 95% of malaria cases

Santo Domingo, DR— The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) reported that, so far this year, 46,218 suspected cases of malaria have been reported in the country, an increase of more than 20% compared to the same period in 2024.

However, regarding confirmed cases, the institution highlighted a decrease from 962 to 810, representing a reduction of more than 15%, with no deaths so far.

Meanwhile, the “transmission hotspot” remains in provinces in the southwestern part of the country, such as Azua, which reported 411 cases; San Juan, 348; and Elías Piña, 26, with 95% of cases concentrated in this area, according to Public Health.

“These provinces make up the national endemic corridor, conditioned by social and environmental determinants such as poverty, inadequate housing, limited access to drinking water and sanitation, agricultural and cross-border mobility, and the constant presence of Anopheles spp breeding sites,” the institution explained in its epidemiological bulletin.

Dengue

Regarding dengue, as of epidemiological week 44 this year, health authorities have reported 1,672 suspected cases, 258 confirmed cases, and 15 severe cases, with no deaths.

Health authorities indicated that “active transmission” continues among the school-age and adolescent population, with the highest incidence among males aged 10 to 19, followed by those aged 5 to 9.

They indicated that this is because young males have greater outdoor exposure and use fewer preventive measures.

In view of the situation, the Ministry of Public Health recommends eliminating mosquito breeding sites, providing health education, and increasing community surveillance.

About maternal deaths, 144 cases have been recorded to date. The highest incidence is in Santo Domingo, with a cumulative total of 35 cases, followed by Santiago with 24 and La Altagracia with 14.

The country reports a cumulative total of 1,542 infant deaths, while 1,323 neonatal deaths have been reported.