As of October 1, 2024, the Pacific region is grappling with alarming health alerts concerning various infectious diseases. Here are the critical updates that you cannot afford to ignore!

Dengue Fever: A Growing Concern in French Polynesia

In French Polynesia, the dengue outbreak has spiraled, with seven new cases recorded in EpiWeek 38, bringing the total confirmed cases to 154 since late November 2023. Among the recent cases, six are residents of Tahiti, and one hails from Nuku-Hiva. Thankfully, there have been no hospitalizations recently. The infection mainly targets children and young adults, often appearing in small familial clusters. The prevalence of DENV-2 and DENV-1 strains is almost equal, making the situation even more concerning. A blue alert remains in effect.

Pertussis Outbreak Spreads in French Polynesia and New Caledonia

Pertussis (whooping cough) is also on the rise, with 124 confirmed cases reported in French Polynesia between June 14 and September 25, 2024. The latest reports show 13 new cases in Tahiti alone. Meanwhile, New Caledonia has identified 53 cases since April, with 32 occurring just in September. The health authorities have declared a red alert for both regions due to the severity of the outbreaks.

Typhoid Fever Decline in Kiribati

In Kiribati, a decrease in typhoid fever cases has prompted a shift from a red alert to a blue alert. Since June, authorities have recorded 106 cases, with four new cases identified in late September. Although fewer cases are being reported, careful monitoring continues due to previous hospitalizations.

Avian Influenza Investigation in the U.S.

Missouri is currently investigating its first confirmed human case of H5N1 avian influenza, reported on September 6, 2024. Initial testing has shown mild respiratory symptoms among healthcare workers who came into contact with the infected individual, but no further cases have emerged, indicating limited transmission.

Marburg Virus Outbreak in Rwanda: A Cause for Alarm

Rwanda faces its first Marburg virus outbreak, with 26 confirmed cases and eight fatalities as of September 29, 2024. Shocking reports indicate that over 70% of cases involve healthcare workers. Quick action is being taken for contact tracing of about 300 individuals, with international assistance from WHO and other partners.

Mpox Cases Spike in Australia and India

Australia is experiencing a surge of mpox cases, particularly affecting New South Wales with 415 reported cases this year. This uptick indicates multiple outbreaks across several states, with all cases identified as clade IIb. In India, a 26-year-old man returning from the UAE has tested positive for mpox, marking the state's second case of the highly infectious clade Ib. In response, health officials are ramping up preparedness efforts, establishing isolation wards, and issuing advisories to control the outbreak.

Pertussis Epidemic in South Korea: An Unprecedented Situation

In South Korea, pertussis cases have skyrocketed to over 22,000 in 2024, far exceeding the average of two weekly cases for the last five years. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has pinpointed Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella holmesii as the culprits behind this worrying epidemic.

In sum, the health landscape across the Pacific is fraught with challenges as various diseases emerge and escalate. Authorities are urging citizens to stay informed and follow health advisories to curb the spread of these infections. Stay safe and vigilant!