07 Dec 2019 | 07:57 AM UTC
Dominican Rep.: Malaria outbreaks ongoing in multiple areas /update 3
Health officials report at least 618 cases of malaria nationwide as of mid-November; outbreaks remain concentrated in La Ciénaga and Los Tres Brazos
Event
Multiple outbreaks of malaria are ongoing in the Dominican Republic as of mid-November. According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), at least 618 cases have been confirmed nationwide, along with three associated fatalities. This represents a 58 percent increase in cases compared to the same period in 2018. Transmission of the disease remains concentrated in the La Ciénaga and Los Tres Brazos areas of Santo Domingo.
Further spread of the disease is possible over the near term.
Context
Symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, headache, nausea, and body aches; early symptoms usually appear between seven and 15 days after the contaminating mosquito bite. There is no vaccine but preventive medications are available.
Advice
Individuals in the Dominican Republic are advised to take measures to prevent mosquito bites and to seek medical attention if experiencing the above symptoms.
