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Chikungunya Virus Infection in Domincan Republic (Update)

09 Jul 2014

The number of new chikungunya infections in the Caribbean region continues to rise, with Domincan Republic and Haiti in particular, reporting high numbers. The two countries make up the island of Hispaniola.

The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) reported a total of 306 837 suspected and confirmed cases for the region as of 3 July 2014; an increase of 42 393 from the previous week.

Of those new infections, almost 30 000 were reported in Dominican Republic, with around 12 000 reported in Haiti.

Advice for Travellers

Avoidance of mosquito bites, particularly during daylight hours, by covering up with clothing, the use of bite avoidance measures such as repellent and bed nets is advised. Elimination of breeding sites around hotel rooms/houses is advised for longer term stays.