By The Star Staff
The island Department of Health provided updates Thursday on the epidemiological surveillance of influenza, dengue and COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures to reduce their spread.
Melissa Marzán Rodríguez, the agency’s chief epidemiology officer, reported that the Epidemiology and Research Division continues to closely monitor the aforementioned diseases affecting the population.
During the 2024-2025 influenza season, which began on June 30, 2024, and will continue until late June of this year, there has been an increase in cases, with a cumulative total of 20,781 reported. Of that number, 1,850 cases were confirmed in the last full week of December (Dec. 22-28, 2024).
“Influenza type A accounts for 87% of confirmed cases,” Marzán Rodríguez said.
She noted that while the number of cases is nearing the alert threshold, it remains below the epidemic level. The regions most affected include Caguas, San Juan Metro and Ponce. Additionally, 24 new hospitalizations were reported, bringing the total to 933 for the season.
Regarding COVID-19, the latest data from Dec. 22-28 indicate that the positivity rate has remained stable at 4.14%, with Arecibo reporting the highest positivity rate. Hospitalizations for COVID-19 are currently at low levels.
Designated Health Secretary Víctor M. Ramos Otero urged citizens to take precautionary measures.
“The symptoms of influenza and COVID-19 are similar and can be confusing,” he said. “I encourage anyone experiencing these symptoms to visit their doctor. It is also crucial to practice hygiene measures, such as washing hands frequently and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing. By doing so, we can help contain these respiratory viruses and protect our loved ones from infection.”
Ramos Otero also emphasized that vaccination remains a key component of the prevention strategy. For information on the nearest vaccination center or to arrange home vaccination for individuals with mobility issues, citizens can call 787-522-3985.
Another disease present on the island is dengue, which is transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. Dengue continues to pose a public health challenge in Puerto Rico, with 117 new cases reported for the week of Dec 16-22, raising the cumulative total to 5,913 cases in 2024. The epidemic has exceeded the epidemic threshold for 49 consecutive weeks, leading to an extension of that classification until March 31. The municipalities most affected include San Juan, Carolina and Rincón, with the age group most affected being 40 to 59 years old. So far, there have been 12 reported deaths on the island associated with dengue, and one case is still under investigation.
“Preventing dengue requires a community effort. We urge families to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and protect themselves with approved repellents, especially during this high transmission season,” Marzán Rodríguez said.
She also recommended wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when traveling. Symptoms of dengue can include fever, muscle and joint pain, headache, rash, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and pain behind the eyes.
“If you experience these symptoms, please visit a healthcare provider, as they can quickly progress to severe dengue, which can have serious consequences,” the epidemiologist said.