Dengue Fever Update: A Rapid Rise in Cases in French Polynesia

In recent weeks, French Polynesia has seen a concerning rise in dengue fever cases, with 18 new infections confirmed during Epidemic Week 42. Among the cases reported, there were residents from Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine, and Bora-Bora in the Society Islands. As of now, a total of 207 cases have been identified since late November 2023, including 191 confirmed and 16 probable cases.

Although hospitalizations were necessary for a 9-year-old and an 18-year-old in this last round of infections, there have been no severe cases or deaths associated with dengue since November 2023. The positivity rate remains stable at 25%, showing a concerning consistency in transmission. Moreover, two new cases were identified in visitors to Huahine and Raiatea as reported in Epidemic Week 43.

Interestingly, laboratory tests show a nearly even split between serotypes: DENV-2 (44%) and DENV-1 (56%). The majority of cases seem to cluster within families or neighborhoods, predominantly affecting children and young adults, particularly those who are recent residents of the area. Authorities continue to issue a blue alert and urge the public to take preventative measures seriously.

Pertussis (Whooping Cough): A Growing Concern in French Polynesia and New Caledonia

In parallel, French Polynesia is grappling with a significant outbreak of pertussis. From mid-June to late October, there have been 191 confirmed cases, with a startling 33 new cases recorded in Epidemic Week 42 alone, followed by 24 more confirmed cases in the subsequent week. A notable cluster of at least nine cases has been traced back to a school in Papeete, highlighting the vulnerability of young children, with 10 requiring hospitalization, including 8 infants aged 8 months or younger. The positivity rate for this illness stands at 12%, prompting health officials to maintain a red alert.

Meanwhile, New Caledonia has reported 79 cases since the year began, predominantly affecting females (67%) and children aged 0 to 14 years. Alarmingly, four infants under six months have also been reported among the cases. The Southern Province, with the highest concentration, accounts for 57% of cases, translating to an incidence rate of 2.2 per 10,000 residents, while the Islands Province reports an even higher rate of 11.4 per 10,000 inhabitants. Health authorities have issued blue alerts in light of these numbers, urging the community to remain vigilant.

Take Action: Protect Yourself and Your Community!

As these alarming trends continue, public health officials stress the importance of immunization and localized health measures to combat these disease outbreaks. The situation remains fluid, and the public is advised to stay informed—after all, your health and safety depend on it!

Stay tuned for more updates, and remember: prevention is always better than cure!