Dajabón.- Following a new cholera outbreak in Haiti, Dominican health officials have tightened surveillance and sanitary controls at the Dajabón border to prevent the disease from entering the country.

Provincial Health Director Dr. Zaberkis Rodríguez said inspectors are stationed at the Dominican-Haitian bridge, enforcing hygiene measures, banning cooked food from Haiti, and distributing educational materials in Spanish and Creole. Health staff also monitor the binational market to ensure proper food handling and water safety.

Rodríguez confirmed that hospitals in Dajabón are ready to treat potential cases, with trained personnel and supplies available.

Haiti has reported over 270 suspected cholera cases and at least 17 deaths, mostly in Port-au-Prince. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and partners have launched response efforts amid worsening sanitary conditions.

Dominican authorities urge the public to maintain hygiene, disinfect water, and seek immediate care for symptoms of diarrhea or dehydration.

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Public Health reported 126 maternal deaths through early October, representing a 10% reduction compared to the same period last year.

According to the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (Sinave), this figure reflects 14 fewer maternal deaths than in 2024, when 140 deaths were reported.

Although the trend is positive, the report notes that of the 126 maternal deaths, two occurred in epidemiological week (EW) 40, from September 28 to October 4, which remains a high figure and highlights challenges in equity in access to maternal health services, especially in rural and vulnerable areas of the country.

These results are below the five reported in the 2024 SE-40, indicating better weekly performance.

However, the recent section of the SE-37–40 also saw an improvement, with 14 deaths in 2025 compared to 18 in 2024, reinforcing a downward trend in the short term.

Improving maternal care: factors explaining the reduction

According to the Epidemiology Directorate’s bulletin, this decrease could be related to several key actions within the health system, such as increased prenatal care coverage, strengthening obstetric emergency care, ongoing training of health personnel, and increased availability of essential medical supplies.

These measures aim to significantly improve the quality and timeliness of care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, critical periods for maternal health.

Maternal deaths by nationality

The analysis by nationality reveals that 70 deaths among Dominican women were recorded as of October 4, compared to 75 in 2024, equivalent to a reduction of five cases. Among Haitian women, 56 cases were reported in 2025 and 65 in 2024.

These data highlight the need for specific actions for migrant populations, who often face additional barriers to accessing timely, quality medical care.

The areas with the lowest maternal death rates are Santo Domingo, San Cristobal, and San Pedro de Macorís. These are followed by the provinces of Valverde, Azua, and Duarte/Monte Cristi.

While some provinces, such as La Vega, La Altagracia, Samaná, and the National District, recorded increases.

This mix of decreases and increases suggests sustained improvements in large urban areas but risk hotspots in provinces with pronounced relative increases, which warrant case audits (delays, referrals, blood/uterotonic availability, management of sepsis and hypertensive disorders) and postpartum reinforcement.

What is maternal mortality, and why is it a key public health indicator?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), maternal death is defined as the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days after the termination of pregnancy, due to causes related to the pregnancy, excluding accidental or incidental causes.

The WHO classifies maternal deaths into two types: direct, those caused by obstetric complications such as hemorrhage, eclampsia, sepsis, among others, and indirect, related to pre-existing or acquired diseases that worsen during pregnancy, such as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), malaria, or heart disease.

Reducing maternal mortality at the regional and global levels

Globally, between 2000 and 2023, the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) decreased by approximately 40%, from 328 to 197 deaths per 100,000 live births.

In the Americas, maternal mortality decreased by 19% between 2020 and 2023, representing nearly five fewer deaths per day across the region.

The reduction in the number of maternal deaths in the Dominican Republic is an encouraging sign, but it is not enough.

This is necessary to continue providing primary care, improve the quality of prenatal care, and expand access to health services in remote communities.

Maternal mortality is more than just a number: it is an essential indicator of the state of the health system, equity in health care, and women’s reproductive rights.

The initiative, a collaboration between the National Health Service (SNS) and the First Lady’s Office, provides free diagnostic and prevention services across the country. These services are delivered through 13 prioritized hospitals and 512 mobile health campaigns, bringing essential medical care directly to underserved communities.

During the fourth-anniversary event, First Lady Raquel Arbaje reiterated her commitment to the program’s expansion, stating that ChequéateRD “was born of that promise: to bring opportunities for life where they are most needed.”

Dr. Mario Lama, Director of the SNS, highlighted the program’s impact on reducing cancer mortality: “Every screening represents a life that can be saved. Early detection is our best defense against cancer.” Dr. Lama also emphasized that mammography can detect breast cancer up to two years before it is palpable, making early diagnosis the true life-saving tool.

To date, the program has screened 89,153 women and 34,603 men. Of the patients screened, 354 have been diagnosed with cancer via biopsy, with 276 currently undergoing treatment, underscoring the vital role of the program in timely intervention.

Up to week 39, the Ministry of Public Health’s epidemiological surveillance system recorded 123 maternal deaths.

However, health authorities indicate that maternal and infant mortality indicators show a general downward trend in 2025. 123 deaths have been recorded, compared to 135 in 2024.

According to official figures, this is a 9% decrease.

However, this overall decline contrasts with the increases observed in provinces such as Santiago, which has 22 cases; La Altagracia, which has 14 deaths; and Distrito Nacional, which has seven, highlighting persistent challenges in the coverage and timeliness of obstetric care in areas with high demand for services.

Maternal mortality is an indicator that reflects the quality of care provided to women; however, it is related to other social determinants. Some specialists argue that women die due to poverty, a dehumanized system, and the lack of effective primary care.

Most mothers who die during or after childbirth have been reported in the public health system, which calls into question the quality of service provided by health personnel and the support network.

Infant mortality

As of week 39, according to the Epidemiology Department, 1,331 maternal deaths have been reported. Authorities estimate that infant mortality in the country has decreased by 22%, from 1,700 to 1,331, according to the report.

This was observed in El Seibo, Monseñor Noel, and Monte Plata. However, increases were observed in provinces such as Independencia, Bahoruco, and Sánchez Ramírez, highlighting the challenges still present in areas with lower installed capacity.

Neonatal

Neonatal mortality is a key indicator of perinatal care and decreased by 16%, from 1,378 to 1,145 deaths. Progress has been seen in Monseñor Noel (-63%), Duarte (-43%), San Cristóbal (-39%), Puerto Plata (-38%), and La Altagracia (-35%).

However, increases were observed in San José de Ocoa (150%), Independencia (100%), Bahoruco (71%), and Hato Mayor (64%), although the figures were small.

This indicator requires greater effort, since in the infant mortality category, the highest number of deaths is recorded in the neonatal group.

The story

Maintaining surveillance of indicators, such as maternal and infant mortality, has been a challenge for nearly 30 years. Maternal mortality is monitored by hospital committees and reported to the Department of Epidemiology.

Greater integration of specialized professionals in public centers is required.

It explains that, due to the accumulation of water and improper food handling or consumption of contaminated water, cases of dengue, leptospirosis, and acute diarrheal disease (ADD), among others, could increase.

The Health Agency emphasized that during the rainy season, there may be an increase in acute respiratory illnesses and epidemics. In this regard, people need to follow local recommendations for both prevention and treatment if they develop symptoms.

Authorities recommend drinking only potable water and avoiding water from unknown sources. They reminded everyone that, if potable water is unavailable, it must be purified by boiling, filtering, or applying 5 drops of chlorine per gallon and letting it sit for 30 minutes. This eliminates contaminants, reducing the risk of illness and health problems.

For domestic water storage, the Ministry recommends applying chlorine to the water stored in tanks using a clean cloth, spreading the chlorine evenly on the walls at the same level as the water, and keeping them covered to prevent the reproduction of mosquito larvae and, consequently, the spread of diseases such as dengue fever.

It also recommends washing and keeping kitchen utensils clean, eating safe foods and storing them properly, washing canned food before opening it, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, avoiding contact with contaminated water or animal feces, and avoiding exposure to factors that can cause leptospirosis.

Remind the public to consistently wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom, before eating, and before handling food.

Likewise, use tissues when sneezing to prevent the spread of flu viruses.

Proper waste disposal is also essential. Do not place garbage bags on the sidewalks during rain; instead, place them in containers or wait for the garbage trucks to arrive.

It instructs people not to self-medicate. Suppose they experience fever, diarrhea, vomiting, respiratory illness, or general malaise, among other symptoms. In that case, they should immediately go to the nearest health center, as it is properly stocked with the necessary supplies, equipment, and medications to address any eventuality.

In that same order, he urges maintaining special care with risk groups such as the elderly, people with chronic diseases and mental health disorders, and people with disabilities.

The health agency urges the population to adopt these measures and stay informed through official sources, such as the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (INDOMET) and the Emergency Operations Center (COE).

Pedernales, DR—The Minister of the Presidency, José Ignacio Paliza, spearheaded the implementation of the 911 National Emergency and Security Response System in the province of Pedernales, to ensure medical assistance, citizen safety, and provide a timely and effective response to any emergency in the area.

Paliza emphasized that “today we are implementing a system that brings together more than 30 Government institutions around one essential purpose: saving lives. Over these five years, 911 has embarked on a path of consolidation that has led it to a presence across much of the country, and today it is established in Pedernales, not only due to its tourism development, but also due to the quality of its residents.”

“Starting today, the people of Pedernales and its visitors will have permanent outpatient care and the support of the institutions that make up the 911 System. At the most crucial moment, when our lives are at risk, they will find the support of the State and the Government here to respond in a coordinated manner,” he added.

For his part, Randolfo Rijo Gómez, executive director of the 911 System, emphasized: “With the start of operations in Pedernales, the reach of the 911 System in the Dominican Republic extends to 26 provinces, expanding its coverage to 93% of the population. This means that more than 9.4 million citizens now have access to this essential emergency response service.”

“From now on, Pedernales has ambulances, fire trucks, vans, and highly trained personnel to provide timely assistance, seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day. This effort translates into peace of mind for families, confidence for communities, and improved conditions for the province’s development. We urge you to preserve this free service, which will benefit the entire community, by making proper use of it,” Rijo Gómez stated.

The 911 System is the coordinating body for response institutions such as the Directorate of Out-of-Hospital Emergency Services (DAEH), the National Police, the Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC), the General Directorate of Traffic Safety and Land Transportation (DIGESETT), and the fire departments, which, along with 25 liaison agencies, will provide timely assistance to the community as well as to the tourism sector, whose potential in the southern region is beginning to develop.

Pedernales Governor Edirda De Óleo stated, “Pedernales exists. How can we not thank our President, Luis Abinader for all the effort he has put into our province? We are beyond grateful to our president and the great government team he leads.”

Juan Manuel Méndez García, director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE) and the DAEH, stated, “We prepared a facility that meets all established standards, and today we have thirteen new and equipped ambulances, staffed mostly by Pedernales personnel. That’s twelve people per ambulance to cover shifts and days off, which means men and women committed to preserving lives in this province.”

Following the rainy season, which has affected the country, infectious diseases may occur that must be prevented.

Rain is a factor in the transmission of infectious diseases because it carries microbes that contaminate the environment, water, and food, says Dr. Clemente Terrero, an infectious disease specialist at the Robert Reid Cabral Hospital.

Water and food can be contaminated with viruses, bacteria, and parasites, which, when consumed, can cause illnesses such as diarrhea, gastroenteritis, and sepsis, the latter being a serious and potentially life-threatening infection.

Humidity can also lead to the proliferation of fungi that cause skin diseases, such as athlete’s foot, the professional assures.

Atmospheric changes caused by rain favor the proliferation of new respiratory pathogen strains and increase disease, Terrero says.
Leptospirosis

Stagnant water can be contaminated with leptospira bacteria, which are transmitted through rat urine, and when human skin comes into contact with the agent.

Terrero specified that this is a disease that can cause leptospirosis, described as a serious, lethal infection with a high mortality rate.

Mosquitoes

Rainfall can create mosquito breeding grounds, particularly in water-filled containers, where Aedes aegypti mosquitoes breed. They transmit several diseases, including chikungunya, Zika, and dengue fever. The latter is considered endemic in the country and causes a high number of illnesses each year, always accompanied by a significant number of deaths.

Another disease that increases with the rains is malaria, which is transmitted by the bite of the Anopheles mosquito. The presence of this vector also increases during rainy periods.
In recent hours, the country has issued alerts for more than 20 provinces, categorizing them as green, red, or yellow due to the rains.

The National Health Service (NHS) reported on Friday that public hospitals have been reinforced as a preventive measure against the effects of an active tropical wave that continues to generate rain across much of the country, ensuring timely care for the population.

The director of SNS Hospital Centers, Yocasta Lara, explained that the Emergency and Disaster Committees were activated in the hospitals corresponding to the Regional Health Services of Ozama, Valdesia, and El Valle, following the weather warnings issued.

He explained that health centers are carrying out prevention and preparedness efforts, including cleaning and maintaining infrastructure, as well as providing medications, supplies, water, and cleaning materials. Security has also been reinforced in the Emergency areas, with inspections of power plants, water and fuel reservoirs, and the safeguarding of medical equipment, computers, and documents.

Likewise, hospital directors in the regions above were instructed to begin medical shifts today at 2:00 p.m.

With these actions, the National Health Service reaffirms its commitment to providing citizens with continuous, quality care, especially during atmospheric events that could put the population’s health at risk.

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Education (MINERD) has filed formal complaints with environmental prosecutors in Duarte and Valverde provinces following recent cases of poisoning that affected students, teachers, and staff at several schools. Acting on behalf of Minister Luis Miguel De Camps García, the ministry’s Legal Department requested immediate investigations into the misuse of toxic chemicals near educational centers.

The incidents occurred at the Ana Celeste Fernández school in La Guama, Duarte, and at the Leónidas Ricardo Román High School and Fidelina Reyes Labor School in Santa Cruz de Mao, Valverde. Emergency protocols were activated in both cases, leading to class suspensions and student evacuations to safeguard the health of the school community. Authorities reported that the Mao case was linked to pesticide spraying on a neighboring property less than 200 meters from the affected schools.

In its filings, MINERD provided evidence from Civil Defense and Public Health and cited possible violations of the Penal Code and Law 311-68 on pesticide use. The ministry urged prosecutors to identify those responsible and apply criminal penalties, noting that negligence or recklessness in handling toxic substances can carry prison sentences and fines under Dominican law.

Santo Domingo — A specialist warns of the current prevalence of cases of allergic rhinitis, upper respiratory tract infections, and hearing problems in patients due to nasal congestion, attributed to the high incidence of Sahara dust.

These are the most common nasal and sinus conditions currently seen in otolaryngology (ENT) clinics, according to Dr. César Moquete of Hospiten Santo Domingo.

Therefore, it recommends routine and timely evaluation of patients who present any of the related symptoms, such as recurrent facial pain, persistent nasal obstruction, constant mucus discharge, and recurrent respiratory infections.

He explained that there is a close relationship between the environment (noise, dust, and polluted air) and diseases linked to otorhinolaryngology, “which is currently complicated by the incidence of Saharan dust on our island, with many patients presenting with nasal allergies, such as sneezing, hyaline mucus, and nasal congestion, who come to the clinic with these symptoms exacerbated.”

Regarding noise, the doctor indicated that it is the main cause of hearing loss and the presence of tinnitus, which is the constant exposure to noise, which, together with the presence of pollutants in the environment and changes in temperature, favors the increase in cases, causing inflammation of the nasal mucosa.

The healthcare professional warned that patients make the mistake of self-medicating with decongestants, such as oxymetazoline, for long periods, “which will cause drug-induced rhinitis, worsening symptoms due to not actively using the medication.”

He indicated that poorly controlled allergic rhinitis and sinusitis are conditions that coexist and have common symptoms, such as sneezing, a runny nose, and nasal congestion.

However, he said that complications arising from chronic sinusitis can include orbital infection and meningitis. , bone infection ( osteomyelitis ), facial skin infections, soft tissue abscesses, and intracranial abscesses.

They differ, he pointed out, in that allergic rhinitis is triggered by allergic processes, whereas chronic sinusitis is a bacterial infectious process that occurs four times a year.

“Treatment for allergic rhinitis is directed toward anti-allergy medications and nasal and systemic corticosteroids, unlike chronic sinusitis, for which we use antibiotics, along with these medications, to control the infection,” said Dr. Moquete.

The specialist explained that otorhinolaryngology (ENT) is a medical-surgical specialty that studies diseases of the ear, hearing, and upper respiratory tract, as well as parts of the lower respiratory tract, including the nose, paranasal sinuses, pharynx, and larynx.

He also performs thyroid gland surgeries, trauma, oncology, plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgeries of the face and neck.