“Epidemic Alert: Pacific Victim Named in Emerging Disease Outbreak – World”

By Trend News Line 2024-04-16 05:23:42.

Update on Dengue Outbreak in French Polynesia and Samoa

In recent updates on the dengue outbreak in French Polynesia and Samoa, the situation remains concerning. In French Polynesia, there has been a slight increase in cases, with one additional case identified in EpiWeek 15, bringing the total number of cases to 42. The majority of cases are concentrated in Tahiti, with a co-circulation of DENV-1 and DENV-2 serotypes, with DENV-2 being predominant. The blue alert status is being maintained in the region to monitor the situation closely.

Similarly, in Samoa, the number of dengue cases continues to rise, with 33 new laboratory-confirmed cases recorded in EpiWeek 13, bringing the total to 73 cases in March alone. The most affected age groups are children between 5-9 years old and individuals over 60 years old. The red alert status remains in place to address the growing number of cases and prevent further spread of the disease.

Influenza A Cases in French Polynesia

In addition to the dengue outbreak, French Polynesia is also facing challenges with influenza A cases. In EpiWeek 14, eight new cases of influenza (seven influenza A and one influenza B) were confirmed out of 74 tests conducted. Two hospitalizations were reported, with no cases requiring intensive care. The blue alert status is being maintained in French Polynesia to monitor the ongoing seasonal epidemic of influenza and the circulation of other respiratory viruses.

Travel-Related Dengue Case in Hawai’i

Moving beyond the Pacific Islands, the Hawai‘i Department of Health has confirmed a travel-related dengue virus case in Hale‘iwa, O‘ahu. This case has raised concerns about the potential for increased transmission in the area. Vector control teams are actively addressing the high-density populations of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes in the region, urging the public to take precautions such as using EPA-registered mosquito repellents and eliminating breeding sites to prevent further spread of the virus.

Measles Alert in South Australia

In South Australia, health authorities have issued a measles alert following the notification of two cases in metropolitan Adelaide. Both cases were identified as household contacts of a previously reported measles case. While there are no new public exposure sites identified, health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of measles in the community.

Murray Valley Encephalitis Detected in Western Australia

In a concerning development, Murray Valley Encephalitis has been detected for the first time in 2024 in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. This detection has prompted residents and travellers in the area to take precautions against mosquito bites. Mosquito sampling serves as an early warning system for potential outbreaks, with recent alerts in the Kimberley region preceding this warning in the Pilbara region.

Public Health Responses to Rabies Case in Timor-Leste

In a tragic incident, Timor-Leste reported its first fatal human case of rabies to the World Health Organization. The case, originating from Pasabe Sub-Region, Oecusse, involved a person with a history of dog bite who tragically passed away after seeking medical attention. A total of 29 suspected rabies cases in humans with dog exposure have been reported in Oecusse Municipality this year, prompting ongoing public health responses to contain the outbreak and protect the population. The WHO assesses the national-level risk as high, highlighting the importance of continued vigilance and response efforts..

1. Epidemic and emerging disease alerts Pacific
2. Epidemic emerging disease alerts Pacific World.