Health authorities in the Cook Islands have confirmed four cases of dengue fever on Rarotonga, prompting increased surveillance and public health advisories. The Ministry of Health stated one case was imported from overseas, while three others are believed to have contracted the virus locally.
None of the confirmed patients require hospitalization, according to Ministry of Health secretary Bob Williams.
Williams indicated that declaring a formal dengue outbreak would follow World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines and would require a minimum threshold of confirmed cases. A response plan is being developed for mobilization if a declaration becomes necessary.
An IMS Team comprised of government agencies and other groups is being kept informed of the situation.
Public Health teams maintain regular monitoring of the local mosquito population, particularly the Aedes aegypti species known to carry the virus. This includes ongoing spraying programs and technical training initiatives. The Airport Authority has been briefed on the confirmed cases and urged to maintain vigilance.
The reports from Rarotonga follow an extended period without confirmed cases in the Cook Islands. The nation's last dengue outbreak was declared in 2019 and continued until 2021.
Symptoms of dengue fever can include fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and pain behind the eyes. Severe dengue may present with rash, mild bleeding from the nose or gums, and easy bruising, potentially leading to internal bleeding if not treated.
The Ministry of Health advises residents to take preventative measures, including keeping homes and surroundings clean, eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, wearing long-sleeved clothing outdoors, using mosquito repellent, and utilizing mosquito netting, particularly in non-air-conditioned rooms.
"Monitoring the region on their outbreaks and informing travellers of the health risks is a measure we take to minimise the importation of dengue (or any disease)," Williams stated.