Today, four new dengue fever cases were reported with positive rapid tests, bringing the total to 69 cases. The Ministry of Health is spraying affected homes and schools.
The majority of confirmed cases are from Tongatapu (29), and the rest from Vava’u (28) and ‘Eua (12).
The age group mostly affected is 10-19 years old.
A total of six cases are currently hospitalised, four in Vaiola, and two in Prince Ngu Hospital, and all were stable, the Ministry stated.
"Ongoing implementation of response activities to hot spots and high risk areas, including collaboration with Tonga Red Cross Society in distributing mosquito nets and dengue fever information brochures to Vava’u and ‘Eua."
Recommendations for public
The Ministry of Health urged the public to continue to clean up and destroy mosquito breeding sites around the home and schools.
They also recommend wearing appropriate clothing to minimise mosquito bites, and use mosquito nets and repellents such as lotion and spray.
Dengue fever symptoms
- 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.
No dengue-related deaths have been reported so far.
