Dengue Fever Outbreaks Continue to Spread Across Oceania
SUVA, FIJI – August 29, 2025 – Dengue fever epidemics are ongoing across several Pacific Island nations, wiht confirmed cases rising in Samoa, American Samoa, and Tuvalu as of the latest reports from the Pacific Syndromic Surveillance system. Health authorities are maintaining elevated alert levels as the viruses continue to circulate, particularly DenV-1 and DenV-2 strains.
Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, is endemic to many tropical and subtropical regions.While symptoms are typically mild, severe cases can lead to hospitalization and, rarely, death. The current outbreaks highlight the vulnerability of Pacific Island nations to infectious diseases and the importance of ongoing surveillance and preventative measures.
Samoa reported 309 new laboratory-confirmed dengue cases during epidemiological week 34 (August 18-24, 2025), bringing the cumulative total since January 2025 to 3,379. The majority of cases (85%) are attributed to the DenV-1 serotype. six deaths have been reported in total, but none occurred during the latest reporting week. As of this week, 55 people remain hospitalized, with no patients requiring intensive care. A blue alert for the DenV-1 virus remains in effect.
American Samoa declared a state of health emergency on July 8, 2025, in response to its own dengue outbreak. As of August 29, 2025, 81 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported, with 93% of patients having recovered. Laboratory analysis from the Hawaii State laboratory has confirmed the co-circulation of both DenV-1 and denv-2 viruses. Both DenV-1 and DenV-2 are currently at a red alert level.tuvalu reported 21 new cases during epidemiological week 34,an increase from the 19 cases reported the previous week.To date, 108 out of 360 tested cases have been positive for dengue. Over 66% of cases are affecting individuals under the age of 14. The outbreak is attributed to the DenV-2 virus. Twelve cases have been hospitalized, with two patients still receiving care. No deaths have been reported. A red alert for the DenV-2 virus is currently in place.
The pacific Syndromic Surveillance System continues to monitor the situation, providing weekly updates on the evolving outbreaks across the region.
