The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) announced a 78% reduction in malaria cases across the country compared to the same period in 2025. This significant decline is attributed to intensified screening, early detection protocols, and targeted preventive treatments.
According to the latest Epidemiological Bulletin, the country recorded zero new cases of malaria during the 13th week of 2026. This brings the year-to-date total to 79 cases, a sharp contrast to the previous year’s figures.
The statistical shift is reflected in the disease’s incidence rate:
2026 Incidence Rate: 2.86 per 100,000 inhabitants.
2025 Incidence Rate: 12.88 per 100,000 inhabitants.
The MSP credits these results to strategic actions in high-risk focus areas, including reinforced epidemiological surveillance and active case-finding missions.
Dengue, leptospirosis, and other pathogens
The report also highlighted favorable trends for other seasonal illnesses:
Dengue: Zero confirmed cases were reported this week. The annual total stands at 65 cases, representing a 20% reduction in the cumulative incidence rate (currently 2.36) compared to last year.
Leptospirosis: No new cases were confirmed this week. The year-to-date total is 55 cases, with an incidence rate of 1.99 per 100,000 inhabitants.
Cholera & vaccine-preventable diseases: The country remains free of cholera, polio, and rubella, with zero cases registered in 2026.
Respiratory viruses
Regarding respiratory illnesses, the MSP noted that activity remains within expected seasonal parameters. While weekly variations range from low to moderate, current surveillance indicates the presence of SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A (H1N1pdm09 and H3N2), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Parainfluenza, Adenovirus, Human Metapneumovirus, and Influenza B.
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El Caribe
23 April 2026