Tonga dengue outbreak grows, Vava’u tops cases with children most affected

Tonga’s Ministry of Health has reported 12 new cases of dengue fever on Friday, bringing the total number of infections to 169, with children mainly affected.

The outbreak, caused by Dengue Virus Type 2 (DENV-2), continues to spread, particularly on the outer island of Vava’u, which has recorded the highest number of cases at 85. cases, while Tongatapu has 57 and ‘Eua has 27.

Thirteen people are hospitalised: five at Prince Ngu Hospital in Vava’u, four at Niu’eiki Hospital in ‘Eua, and four at Vaiola Hospital in Tongatapu.

Fortunately, all hospitalised patients are in stable condition, and no dengue-related deaths have been reported.

The outbreak mostly affects children and teenagers between the ages of 10 and 19.

Health authorities emphasise the importance of public awareness and mosquito control to prevent the further spread of the disease.

Tonga experienced its last dengue outbreak in 2019.

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

Vava‘u is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) north of Tongatapu, Tonga’s main island. The journey between the two islands typically takes about 50 minutes by plane or 12-15 hours by ferry, depending on sea conditions. Photo/Google Maps

While many infections are asymptomatic or lead to only mild illness, the virus can occasionally cause more severe cases and even result in death.

Despite the lack of a specific treatment for the infection, early detection and access to appropriate medical care can lower the fatality rates associated with severe dengue.

Vaiola Hospital in Tongatapu. Photo/Ministry Health Tonga

Speaking to John Pulu on PMN Tonga, the Kingdom’s Health Minister, Dr ‘Ana Akauola, urges families in Tonga to help reduce the spread of the disease.

Watch the full interview here

“The Ministry of Health is advising people to ensure the environment is clean and take away any rubbish that will collect standing water to reduce breeding areas for mosquitoes during this wet season.

“We need every hand on deck to combat this disease soon as our children are the most affected with the age of current cases at 12 to 17 years old,” Akauola says.