Tonga is currently dealing with an outbreak of dengue fever, with the Minister of Health confirming 10 cases since last Friday.
Most cases are from Tongatapu, and the age group most affected is 12 – 17.
The Ministry of Health said in a statement the number of positive and suspected cases has increased significantly over the past few days in the island groups of Tongatapu, Vava’u, and Eua.
More cases are expected due to the ongoing rain and adverse weather conditions, which favour breeding sites for the mosquitoes responsible for the transmission of the dengue virus, the statement said.
The Officers in Charge of Health in all outer island groups have been alerted to the situation and encourage their respective practitioners to have a high index of suspicion for early detection and treatment of cases.
The Public Health outbreak response teams have been mobilized to conduct positive case investigations, contact management, robust vector control, and preventative measures.
The Ministry reminds the public that dengue fever is contagious.
It spreads from person to person through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
The public is urged not to panic but to educate themselves about dengue fever and to seek medical attention promptly if they experience symptoms.
Dengue Fever symptoms include:
Sudden high fever
Severe headaches
Pain behind the eyes
Joint and muscle pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Swollen glands
Rash that appears 3-4 days after fever begins
Severe symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bleeding gums and vomiting blood, require immediate medical attention.
Consultation and dialogue with World Health Organization and other technical partners continues while mobilizing resources to enhance surveillance, community wide clean-up and prevention measures.
