Dominican Republic: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas through October

Event

Health authorities reported more than 6,000 confirmed dengue fever cases Jan. 1-Oct. 19 in multiple areas in the Dominican Republic. This is compared to 3,837 cases reported over a similar period in 2022. Most cases were reported from Distrito Nacional, Santiago, and Santo Domingo. This represents the most complete data available as of Oct. 23.

Context

Health officials reported 10,784 cases of dengue fever in the Dominican Republic in 2022. In 2020 there were 3,964 cases. There were 20,183 in 2019 and 1,558 in 2018. Dengue fever is considered a year-round and nationwide threat in the Dominican Republic, where the risk of infection is highest from May to November.

There are two dengue fever vaccines, Dengvaxia and Qdenga. It is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and in a country with a high dengue fever burden. Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of infection is often highest in urban and semi-urban areas. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated in a timely manner.

Advice

If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.