National Epidemiologist Dr. Shallaudin Ahmed has assured the public that the Ministry of Health’s surveillance system remains actively engaged in monitoring suspected dengue cases in the country.
“Today, 2025 we have recorded 147 suspected dengue cases. Of these, 84 samples have been tested for agro viruses including dengue, chikungunya and zika viruses using PCR methodology in our national laboratory,” he said during a press statement.
He continued, “Only one positive case was identified in February with all of the results returning negative.”
Given these findings, Dr. Ahmed noted: “We are preparing to test for additional agro viruses through our regional reference laboratory to further investigate potential causes.”
Furthermore, Dr. Ahmed said reports were also received of IgG antibodies positive dengue cases from a private level using rapid antibody tests.
“It is important to clarify that IgG antibodies indicate past exposure to agroviruses, not necessarily recent infection,” Dr. Ahmed explained. “In contrast, IgM antibodies would suggest accurate or recent infection.”
To date, he revealed that no severe dengue cases have been confirmed, “however we remain vigilant as all four dengue serotypes are known to circulate in Dominica.” Noting that of particular concern is the risk of severe dengue previously called Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever.”]
This, Dr. Ahmed shared, can lead to life-threatening complications including bleeding, organ failure, and shock without prompt medical attention.
In the meantime, he said the recent flu outbreak has officially ended.
“Between March 9, and 29, a total of 281 cases were reported, with a noticeable peak following carnival celebrations,” he stated.
He went on to state that as with the recent Gastroenteritis outbreak slightly more women–56 percent–were affected.
“Cases range from infants as young as 4 months to senior age 90,” Dr. Ahmed revealed. “The most impacted age groups were young children…”
He mentioned that laboratory testing confirmed Influenza B as the dominant strain with only one case of Influenza A identified, “And no cases of COVID-19 detected.”
The Ministry of Health is grateful to report that there were no severe cases or deaths associated with this outbreak.
The suspected Dengue cases what are they? Did they report the MIDGEs that is not endemic to Dominica to the WHO. You all are not doing good faith reporting. The MIDGE have sent people to the emergency – I know so. they told me while I was in Dominica.
Midges spread Oropouche virus that mimicks dengue. WHO is following this I do not believe Dominica is reporting anything to WHO.
Seems like the trend is that Dominica is becoming a health risk, lepto, now dengue hmmm
Lepto, Dengue all can be traced back to the garbage accumulation island-wide. When are the people going to say enough is enough? Poor sanitary conditions and improper waste disposal serve as a breeding ground for diseases especially the mosquito borne ones. God help Ma Dominique and her children!!