French Polynesia: At least 2048 cases of dengue fever reported between April and November

Event

According to local health authorities, at least 2048 new cases of dengue fever have been reported in French Polynesia between April 2 and November 25. An epidemic alert has been issued on the Takaroa, Maupiti, Tikehau, Arutua, and Tureia islands. Further spread of the fever is possible in the coming weeks.

Context

Symptoms of dengue fever include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and rashes. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a potentially deadly complication that is characterized by high fever, the enlargement of the liver, and hemorrhaging.

Advice

Individuals present in French Polynesia are advised to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites (e.g. by wearing covering clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping in a screened-in or air-conditioned room) and to eliminate possible mosquito breeding grounds on their properties (e.g. small pockets of fresh water, such as rainwater that has collected in cans, bottles, tires, flower pots, clogged gutters, etc.).