Dengue Fever Outbreak: Samoa Closes Schools Amid Surge in Cases and Second Child Death

In a growing health crisis, Samoa has taken drastic measures to combat the dengue fever outbreak, closing all schools nationwide and launching intensified fumigation programs. The decision comes as the number of confirmed cases continues to rise, with the second child in the country reported to have died from the disease this year.

Acting Prime Minister Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio confirmed the death of an 8-year-old girl earlier this month, marking the second child fatality linked to dengue fever in Samoa this year. The first reported death was 12-year-old Misiafa Nathaniel Lene, who succumbed to the disease in early April after being medically evacuated to New Zealand. He passed away in his parents' arms at Auckland's Starship Children’s Hospital on April 13, despite efforts by his family to secure medical treatment.

As of July 20, more than 1,700 confirmed cases of dengue fever have been recorded in Samoa between January and July, with an average of 100 new cases reported weekly. The outbreak has placed immense pressure on the country’s healthcare system, particularly its pediatric units, which are now operating at or near full capacity. To manage the rising number of hospital admissions, additional beds and temporary wards have been established across the nation.

The Ministry of Health has initiated fumigation programs across schools, government buildings, and the National University of Samoa as part of its preventive measures. Meanwhile, local communities are being encouraged to conduct clean-up efforts to eliminate potential mosquito breeding grounds.

The outbreak has come at a particularly challenging time for Samoa, as the country prepares for national elections next month. This has led to an expected influx of overseas voters, especially from New Zealand and Australia, which could further strain the healthcare system and public services. New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not issued new travel advisories for Samoa but has advised travelers to consult the SafeTravel website for information on mosquito-borne illnesses.

Dengue fever, also known as break-bone fever, is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. It causes symptoms such as high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, eye pain, and a rash. While most people recover within a week, the disease can be life-threatening, especially for children and young people.

Similar outbreaks have been reported in other Pacific nations, including the Cook Islands and Tonga, where three deaths have been recorded. In Tonga, the most affected group is children aged between 10 and 19. The situation in Samoa underscores the need for continued vigilance and international cooperation in combating the spread of dengue fever across the Pacific region.