The Ministry of Health has officially declared a Dengue Fever outbreak in Tonga, following a rise in confirmed cases across several island groups.
In a public health update issued today, the ministry confirmed 28 dengue cases nationwide, including four new cases, prompting the formal outbreak declaration.
The cases have been recorded across Tongatapu, Haʻapai, and ʻEua, with four patients currently hospitalised.
Health authorities have reported no deaths associated with the outbreak to date.
According to the Ministry, the most affected age group is adolescents between 11 and 15 years old, raising concerns about the potential spread of the mosquito-borne virus among school-aged children.
Officials say surveillance and response measures have been intensified, including case monitoring, vector control activities, and public health awareness efforts aimed at limiting transmission.
Public Health Response
Dengue Fever is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes and can spread rapidly in tropical conditions, particularly during periods of increased rainfall.
Health officials are urging members of the public to remain vigilant and take practical steps to reduce the risk of dengue transmission, including eliminating standing water around homes where mosquitoes can breed, using mosquito repellents, installing window screens or sleeping under mosquito nets, and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms such as fever, headache, joint pain, or rash develop.
The Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely and has indicated that further updates will be issued as more information becomes available.
Community cooperation, health officials note, will play a key role in controlling the spread as Tonga enters the heightened response phase following the official outbreak declaration.
