Malaria in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic Ministry of Health (in Spanish) has reported increased transmission of malaria in 2024. From 1 January 2024 to 19 October 2024, there have been 876 confirmed malaria cases in the Dominican Republic, compared to 224 confirmed cases in 2023.

More than half of this year’s cases have been reported in Azua and San Juan provinces in the west of the country.

Advice for Travellers

All travellers to the Dominican Republic should:

• be made aware of the risk of malaria, given the current increase in cases
• practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times in all areas: this is the mainstay of malaria prevention
• if they are visiting Azua and San Juan provinces, consider antimalarial chemoprophylaxis if they are in a group at higher risk from malaria

Travellers returning from malarious areas should be advised to seek prompt medical advice if they develop a fever during travel or on their return home, ensuring they highlight their potential exposure to malaria.

See the TRAVAX Malaria section and the Dominican Republic country page for further information.