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.