One month on, Tonga health ministry reports over 300 dengue cases

The number of confirmed dengue fever cases in Tonga is now 321, with the Ministry of Health providing daily updates on the ongoing outbreak.

More than half of the cases are in Vava'u, where infections continue to rise.

Speaking to John Pulu on PMN Tonga, Health Minister Dr Ana Akauola says the outbreak began one month ago, and Dengue Virus Type 2 is responsible for the surge in cases.

Tonga experienced its last dengue outbreak in 2019.

The most affected age group is 12- to 19-year-olds, and many of the infected individuals have never had dengue before, making them more vulnerable to severe symptoms.

While there have been no dengue-related deaths, 13 people are currently hospitalised: Five at Prince Ngu Hospital in Vava’u, four at Niu’eiki Hospital in ‘Eua, and two at Vaiola Hospital in Tongatapu.

All are in stable condition.

Listen to Dr Ana Akauola's full interview below.

Ongoing response efforts

Health authorities are continuing case investigations and vector control measures in high-risk areas.

Community awareness programmes are underway in schools such as Saint Joseph Business College and GPS Ngele’ia in Tongatapu and in Vava’u communities, including Free Church of Tonga Talihau, ‘Utungake, and Pangaimotu.

The Aedes mosquito that causes dengue fever. Photo/KidsHealthNZ

Akauola says the high number of cases in Vava’u is due to a lack of mosquito protection measures and urges residents to take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites and prevent further infections.

She explains that Vava’u was one of the outer islands not affected by previous dengue outbreaks, contributing to the lack of protection.

The Ministry of Health acknowledges the support of communities, government ministries, NGOs, and stakeholders, as well as technical assistance from WHO and UNICEF.

Vava‘u is 300km (186 miles) north of Tongatapu, Tonga’s main island. Photo/Google Maps