The battle against dengue fever in Samoa has reached a pivotal juncture as health officials contend with a significant increase in confirmed cases. 

The most recent epidemiological report, dated 11 March 2024 highlighted a worrying trend with 12 fresh cases documented within the preceding week.

According to data from the Ministry of Health, five cases of dengue were successfully investigated. In December 2023, 16 cases were recorded and 10 in January. However, in February, a total of 25 cases were recorded.

Those aged between 20-29 years and individuals over 60 years old are disproportionately affected by the illness.

The geographic distribution of cases paints a worrying picture, with the North West of Upolu (NWU) and the Apia Urban Area regions emerging as hotspots. 

However, no region has been spared, with cases reported even from the island of Savaii.

The outbreak has placed immense pressure on healthcare facilities, particularly the Tupua Tamasese Meaole  Hospital, where the majority of cases are being presented. 

Health officials have noted a concerning trend, with twice the average number of cases seen in the past weeks.

In response to the escalating crisis, the Ministry of Health has implemented a series of urgent measures aimed at curbing the spread of the disease.

Among these initiatives include intensified media awareness campaigns, utilising talk shows and advertisements across all media platforms to educate the public on dengue preventative measures.

Additionally, the Integrated Vector Control Committee (I.V.C.C.) convened on 5 March 2024 and devised a comprehensive set of interventions. 

These include a Cabinet submission proposing National Cleanup Campaigns, raising awareness on source reduction, and collaborating with other government ministries and agencies to implement preventative measures.

Health officials have also issued a public health alert to clinicians, urging them to report and notify suspected dengue cases promptly. 

Syndromic surveillance is being employed to identify potential outbreaks early, with all symptomatic and suspected dengue patients being tested.

Recommendations for the public emphasise the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the risk of dengue transmission. 

Individuals are urged to eliminate stagnant water sources around their homes, wear appropriate clothing to minimise mosquito bites, and utilise mosquito nets and repellents.

Furthermore, those experiencing dengue-like symptoms are advised to seek medical attention immediately. 

Health officials stress the importance of monitoring household members for similar symptoms and presenting them to the hospital for testing and health advice.

On 27 February, the Director General of Health, Aiono Professor Alec Ekeroma notified all clinicians and clinical laboratories of the situation. 

"There continues to be an increasing number of dengue confirmed cases as observed through the laboratory surveillance data, particularly in February 2024," the alert stated. 

"The dengue virus serotype has yet to be identified; awaiting results from LAB PLUS NZ."

The clinical case definition includes acute fever higher than 38 degrees Celsius for at least two days, anorexia and nausea, aches and pains, rash, low white blood cell count.