ROSEAU, Dominica, (CMC) – Health authorities in Dominica are monitoring sporadic suspected cases of leptospirosis, as well as dual outbreaks of influenza and gastroenteritis.

“While preliminary rapid test has shown positive results, we are waiting for confirmatory testing from [the] Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) [as] its many symptoms can resemble dengue and influenza,” said Dominica’s National Epidemiologist Dr Shalanddin Ahmed.

The Dominican Ministry of Health says it is also “closely monitoring dual outbreaks of influenza (flu) and gastroenteritis (stomach flu) as the country faces a significant rise in cases, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children and those with weakened immune systems.”

“This unprecedented situation is prompting increased efforts to mitigate the spread of both illnesses across communities,” the ministry said, adding that health departments have reported a substantial increase in cases of both influenza and gastroenteritis in recent weeks.

In a statement, the ministry said “flu cases are higher than anticipated for this time of year, with the number of hospitalisations steadily rising. Symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, cough, body aches, and fatigue.

“Concurrently, gastroenteritis, characterised by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, is spreading rapidly, especially in community settings such as schools and daycare centers, and largely within the one-to-14-year age groups”.

The ministry said that in response to the ongoing outbreaks, together with various stakeholders, they have “implemented comprehensive strategies to curb the spread of both the flu and gastroenteritis.

“Additionally, primary care facilities, hospitals and healthcare providers are being supported with additional information and medical supplies to handle the increased patient load.”

The Dominican ministry is reminding the public that necessary precautions should be taken, including, frequent hand washing with soap and water, staying home from school or work when ill, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow among other precautions so as to “help mitigate the impact of these outbreaks”.