The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has clarified that it has not declared an HIV epidemic in the Dominican Republic, responding to recent reports circulating on social media and in some news outlets. While not a new announcement, the organization emphasizes that HIV is considered a persistent epidemic globally, including in the Dominican Republic, due to its magnitude, sustained distribution over time, and ongoing transmission, particularly within key and vulnerable populations.
This classification, PAHO explains, reflects the longstanding nature of the HIV situation and isn’t indicative of a recent, sudden escalation. The term “epidemic” in this context doesn’t signal a new alert but rather acknowledges the continuous presence and impact of the virus.
Progress has been made in responding to HIV across the Americas, but significant challenges remain. According to UNAIDS estimates for 2024, approximately 170,000 new HIV infections and 38,000 AIDS-related deaths occurred in the region. This underscores the continued need for robust prevention, treatment, and control efforts.
The Dominican Republic, specifically, has been identified as a nation with a high burden of HIV in the Caribbean. A study published in February 2020 in BMC Women’s Health highlighted that while a significant proportion of women in rural areas of the Dominican Republic reported willingness to undergo HIV testing if offered (73%), only 68% reported having been tested previously. Barriers to testing included perceptions of low risk (23%), distance to testing facilities (13%), and discomfort with the testing process (11%). The study also found that women who had never been tested were more likely to be older and have lower levels of education, as well as never having been tested for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The PAHO statement highlights that the Dominican Republic is actively strengthening its actions related to HIV prevention, care, and control. These efforts include initiatives to improve diagnosis, treatment access, and reduce new infections and viral suppression rates. Viral suppression, achieved through consistent antiretroviral therapy, is crucial not only for the health of the individual but also for preventing further transmission of the virus.
A qualitative study conducted in 2023 and published in PLoS One explored the factors affecting individuals living with multiple chronic conditions, including HIV, in the Dominican Republic. The research, based on in-depth interviews, aimed to understand the complexities of co-managing HIV alongside other non-communicable diseases. This research points to the need for integrated healthcare approaches that address the holistic health needs of individuals living with HIV and other chronic conditions.
PAHO reiterates its commitment to supporting national authorities in strengthening the HIV response, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based strategies, respect for human rights, and universal access to quality health services. This support includes technical assistance, capacity building, and the provision of essential resources.
The organization also urges the public to rely on official sources for accurate and evidence-based information regarding HIV and other health issues. Misinformation can hinder prevention efforts and contribute to stigma, which remains a significant barrier to testing, treatment, and care. PAHO acknowledges that stigma, including homophobia, predates the HIV/AIDS epidemic and continues to fuel discrimination and hinder effective responses.
A regional consultation on disease elimination in the Americas, held in 2015, also highlighted the ongoing need for strengthening capacity in areas related to HIV and other infectious diseases. The Dominican Republic, along with Haiti and Nicaragua, implemented surveys related to soil-transmitted helminth infections, demonstrating a commitment to public health surveillance and data collection.
PAHO’s message is one of continued vigilance and collaboration. While the situation is not a newly declared epidemic, the ongoing presence of HIV in the Dominican Republic requires sustained efforts to prevent new infections, provide care and treatment to those living with the virus, and address the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to its spread. Access to comprehensive HIV health care for key populations remains a critical priority.
