Dominican Republic: Over 45,000 COVID-19 cases confirmed as of July 15 /update 13

Event

Health authorities reported on Wednesday, July 15, that 46,305 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases and 929 associated deaths have been confirmed in Dominican Republic.

From July 1, authorities began gradually reopening the country for international tourism, following the easing of restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) resumed international flight operations on July 1, to and from destinations such as New York City. Around 40-50 percent of hotels on the island have also reopened with health and safety measures in place, while others are preparing to reopen from November.

The state of emergency ended on June 30, however, some restrictions remain in place including following social distancing measures, the mandatory wearing of face masks in public places, and no social, economic, or recreational activities permitted between 20:00 - 05:00 (local time).

Further international spread of the virus is expected in the near term.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and labored breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.