Thirteen new cases of dengue reported with positive rapid tests, have brought the total cumulative Dengue Fever cases up to 321 in Tonga.
The Ministry of Health reported on 20 March that the 13 new cases are currently hospitalized (8 at Prince Ngu, 3 at Niu’eiki, 2 at Vaiola) and all are in stable condition.
A majority of confirmed cases are from Vava’u (182), the rest from Tongatapu (100) and ‘Eua (39).
The age group mostly affected is 10-19 years old. Youngest age affected is a 7 months old baby boy.
Dengue Virus Type 2 (DENV-2) has been identified as the responsible virus for this current outbreak in Tonga.
“Testing for Dengue Fever will now be prioritized to moderate and severe cases only presented to any health care facility.”
The Ministry of Health advised mild cases of Dengue Fever to stay home and to come in to clinics if they experience severe symptoms.
Response Activities
The Ministry is continuing their case investigation and vector control to hot spots and high-risk areas and are delivering awareness programs to communities and schools, including the GMS Átele sií and GMS Vaini in Tongatapu.
Recommendations for the Public
- Continue to clean up and destroy mosquito breeding sites around homes 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.
