24 Oct 2024 | 01:43 PM UTC
French Polynesia: Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas, especially Tahiti, through October
Elevated dengue fever activity reported in multiple areas in French Polynesia through October. Tahiti is most affected. Avoid mosquito bites
Health authorities have reported elevated dengue fever activity in multiple areas in French Polynesia, with 188 total cases (173 confirmed) reported Nov. 27, 2023-Oct. 21, 2024. This is compared to no locally acquired cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Tahiti (114 cases) is the most affected, followed by Nuku-Hiva (23 cases), Moorea (18 cases), Rangiroa (7 cases), Fakarava (4 cases), Ua-Huka (2 cases), Ua-Pou (2 cases), Bora Bora (1 case), Huahine (1 case). Disease activity has been on an upward trend since late August. Health authorities have implemented mosquito control actions in affected areas and urged the public to take mosquito prevention measures. This report represents the most complete data available as of Oct. 24.
If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician regarding vaccination. Avoid mosquito bites and remove standing water to reduce the number of biting mosquitoes. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two weeks of being in affected areas. Do not use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as these could exacerbate bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.
The risk of dengue fever transmission is present throughout French Polynesia and occurs throughout the year. The risk of dengue fever infection is highest during the country’s rainy season, from November to April. The warm and wet conditions create an ideal environment for mosquito breeding, with increased rainfall providing breeding sites for mosquitoes and higher temperatures accelerating their life cycle.
Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of infection is often highest in urban and semi-urban areas. Symptoms of dengue fever include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or nose or gum bleeding. Symptoms typically appear 5-7 days after being bitten but can develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if it is not recognized and treated in a timely manner. There are two dengue fever vaccines, Dengvaxia (CYD-TDV) and Qdenga (TAK-003). Dengvaxia is only recommended for individuals with a history of dengue infection and who live in dengue-endemic countries or areas. Qdenga is recommended for use in children aged 6–16 in settings with high dengue burden and transmission intensity. Check with your healthcare provider if dengue vaccination is needed.
