According to the latest report from the Health Security & Disease Surveillance Division, Samoa is currently experiencing a dengue fever outbreak. As of 5 May 2024, there have been 342 lab-confirmed cases since November 2023. In the most recent epidemiological week (Epi-week 18: 29 April – 5 May 2024), 44 new cases were recorded. No dengue-related deaths have been reported to date.
Dengue Fever Cases by Date of Test Request (Nov 2023 – Early May 2024)
| Date Range | Number of Cases (Approximate Trend) |
|---|---|
| Nov 2023 | Low, scattered cases (0-2 per day) |
| Dec 2023 | Low, scattered cases (0-2 per day) |
| Jan 2024 | Low, scattered cases (0-2 per day) |
| Feb 2024 | Slight increase, scattered cases (1-3 per day) |
| Mar 2024 | Moderate increase, more frequent cases (1-5 per day) |
| Apr 2024 | Significant increase, frequent higher counts (2-10 per day) |
| End of Apr 2024 | Highest spike, up to 16 cases in a single day |
| Early May 2024 | Continued high counts, frequent spikes (5-12 per day) |
Figure 1. This table provides an overview of the lab-confirmed dengue fever cases reported in Samoa from November 2023 to early May 2024. The data is broken down by date range and describes the approximate trend in the number of cases during each period. This helps in understanding the outbreak’s progression and identifying key periods of increased case numbers. Such information is essential for public health planning and response.
Figure 2. A simplified graph for Dengue Fever Cases by Date of Test Request (Nov 2023 – Early May 2024).
Affected Demographics:
- The majority of cases are in children under 10 years old and adults over 60 years old.
- The Apia Urban Area (AUA) and North West of Upolu (NWU) are the most affected regions.
Case Definition:
- Suspected Case:
- Acute fever ≥38°C for at least 2 days, with two or more of the following symptoms: anorexia, nausea, aches and pains, rash, low white blood cell count. Warning signs include abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, mucosal bleeding, liver enlargement, fluid accumulation, lethargy, restlessness, increase in hematocrit, and rapid decrease in platelet count.
- Confirmed Case:
- Detection of dengue virus or dengue-specific antigen/antibodies in tissue, blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or other body fluid.
Figure 3. Age group distribution of dengue lab-confirmed cases by sex, November 2023 to date.
Gender Distribution:
| Gender | Number of Cases | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Females | 167 cases | 49% |
| Males | 175 cases | 51% |
| Total | 342 cases | 100% |
Figure 4. Gender distribution table.
Control Measures: The Ministry of Health is implementing several control measures to address the outbreak:
- Spraying: Conducting spraying to eliminate adult mosquitoes in hotspot areas (Apia area and north west of Upolu).
- Community Engagement: Encouraging community efforts to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
- Risk Communication: Disseminating information on dengue prevention through various media outlets.
- Collaboration: Working with other sectors to raise awareness and prevent dengue.
Figure 5. Density map of lab-confirmed dengue cases by village, November 2023 to date.
Recommendations for the Public:
- Eliminate Breeding Sites: Remove stagnant water around the house to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Protect Against Bites: Wear appropriate clothing, and use mosquito nets and repellents.
- Seek Medical Attention: If affected, seek medical attention immediately. Monitor household members for symptoms and get tested if necessary.
For medical advice, contact the Ministry of Health at +685 68100 or +685 66600, or visit the nearest hospital. Dengue situational reports are available on the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page and website: www.health.gov.ws.
