Despite the ongoing drought, according to the latest epidemiological report from the Ministry of Public Health, in the last four weeks there have been 338 probable cases of dengue reported of which 262 (78%) are in minors less than 15 years old. No deaths have been reported in the Dominican Republic so far this year.
Nevertheless, the Pan American Health Organization is recommending the country to be especially vigilant. The highest number of cases so far have been reported in Greater Santo Domingo and Barahona, near the border with Haiti.
Overall, PAHO has registered 99,998 cases throughout Latin America with 28 deaths in January and February 2019. PAHO is recommending preventive plans should encompass the review of emergency plans, increase in the checks for areas where there could be standing water, and ensuring medical personnel is adequately trained.
Given the situation, the population is recommended to cover all standing water, change flower water every three days and to seek medical advice as soon as symptoms appear.
Symptoms include muscular pain, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands and a rash. In addition, there is a high fever and intense headache and pain behind the eyes.
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which also carries zika and chikungunya. Normal dengue is not fatal if treated correctly.
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Diario Libre
19 March 2019