An eight months ol baby is the youngest person affected in the dengue fever outbreak, the Ministry of Health reported in its latest update. Asof Sunday, 2 March, the total number of dengue fever (DF) cases in Tonga had risen to 88, with 38 cases in Tongatapu, 36 in Vava'u, and 14 in 'Eua.
The age group mostly affected is 10-19 years old, with the youngest case being 8-months old.
A total of nine cases are currently hospitalised; five in Prince Ngu hospital, two in Niu’eiki Hospital, and two in Vaiola Hospital.
MOH stated that one case is still in the Intensive Care Unit under close monitoring.
No dengue-related death has been reported.
The circulating dengue virus, responsible for the current outbreak, has been confirmed as the Dengue Virus Type 2 (DENV-2).
Response Activities
Ongoing preventative activities are being carried out by the MOH including vector control to hot spot and high risk areas, and health talks to the churches, FWC Sopu, FWC Fasi moe Afi, FWC Houmakelikao and Roman Catholic Ma’ufanga.
Recommendations for public
- Continue to clean up and destroy mosquito breeding sites around the home and schools.
- Wear appropriate clothing to minimize mosquito bites.
- Use mosquito nets and repellents such as lotion and spray.
- If you are sick, watch out for severe symptoms and seek medical attention immediately.
