Dominican Republic reports 19 leptospirosis deaths in 2026

The Dominican Republic has reported 19 deaths and 272 confirmed cases of leptospirosis so far in 2026, according to the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (Sinave). While recent weekly data shows a decline in new cases compared to the previous year, the cumulative figures represent a significant increase over the same period in 2025, which saw 11 deaths and 115 confirmed cases.

Health authorities note that leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease transmitted through contact with water, soil, or surfaces contaminated by the urine of infected animals, primarily rodents. The risk is heightened during periods of heavy rain and flooding.

Additionally, the country has recorded 277 confirmed cases of dengue this year, resulting in one death. Recent reports identified the circulation of the DENV-2 serotype in four of the nine new cases reported in the latest week. Health officials maintain that dengue incidence remains within the ‘success zone’ despite the year-on-year increase in cases.