The Ministry of Health has declared that the dengue fever outbreak is over. The outbreak was declared in October 2023.

This announcement marks the end of a significant public health challenge that had 496 laboratory-confirmed dengue cases reported since the outbreak began. 

In the past two weeks alone, the number of new cases dramatically decreased to just six, with no fatalities recorded throughout the entire period.

The majority of dengue cases identified during the outbreak were among individuals aged 20 to 29 years. The regions most affected were the Northwest Upolu (N.W.U.) and the Apia Urban Area. 

In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health coordinated extensive mosquito control efforts. 

These included partnerships with the District's Fono Fa'avae to conduct village clean-ups aimed at reducing mosquito breeding sites. Additionally, the Ministry executed fumigation operations in schools, hotels, hospitals, and other key locations.

The Samoa Tourism Authority (S.T.A.) has reassured travellers and stakeholders that the situation is under control. 

In a statement, the S.T.A. highlighted the coordinated efforts that led to the resolution of the outbreak. 

"This is a significant milestone for our community and a testament to the resilience and collective action of all involved," the statement read. 

It emphasised that the outbreak was managed through rigorous mosquito control measures, public education campaigns about eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, and the provision of essential medical care.

The S.T.A. also noted that while the end of the outbreak is a welcome relief, it underscores the need for continued vigilance and preventative measures to safeguard community health. 

The Ministry of Health and other stakeholders will remain proactive in monitoring and managing any future risks to ensure ongoing safety and well-being of Samoa’s residents and visitors.