Epidemic Alerts in the Pacific: Dengue and Other Health Concerns as of July 2025

As of July 8, 2025, the Pacific region is facing significant public health challenges, particularly due to ongoing dengue fever outbreaks across multiple island nations. According to the Pacific Community (SPC), the situation has escalated over the past weeks, prompting health authorities to issue alerts and implement mitigation strategies.

The Cook Islands reported a dengue fever outbreak in Rarotonga, with the Ministry of Health declaring the situation critical on May 22, 2025. Since February, there have been 50 reported cases; of these, 44 individuals have fully recovered while six remain active. Twelve cases required hospitalisation, with ten patients now discharged. The outbreak is characterized by the co-circulation of Dengue Virus Type 1 (DENV-1) and Type 2 (DENV-2), with 24 of the 27 confirmed serotype samples being DENV-1. Clean-up campaigns are ongoing, urging the public to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and seek medical care upon the appearance of symptoms. These updates were documented in the Cook Islands 2025 Dengue Outbreak Situation Report #20 on July 2, 2025.

In French Polynesia, the dengue situation is also concerning. EpiWeek 26 recorded 36 new cases, bringing the total since November 27, 2023, to 2,364 confirmed cases. Notably, the positivity rate increased, while the hospitalisation rate decreased. The health authorities maintain a blue alert for DENV-1, as reported in the Bulletin de surveillance sanitaire de Polynésie française n°24-2025.

Meanwhile, Kiribati's Ministry of Health confirmed a dengue outbreak on April 24, 2025, with a total of 96 confirmed cases reported by June 9, 2025. The outbreak predominantly affects children aged 3 to 9 years. Health campaigns are being conducted actively, focusing on vector control and community awareness. The dengue outbreak is marked by a red alert for both DENV-1 and DENV-2, as outlined in the Dengue Fever Situational Report #11 dated July 7, 2025.

Samoa has also been grappling with dengue fever, having reported 703 confirmed cases and one death since the outbreak declaration on April 17, 2025. The Ministry of Health's report from June 30, 2025, indicates that 82% of cases are from Upolu Island, with a significant portion of the affected population being under 20 years of age. Collaborative efforts among various governmental sectors continue to be emphasized for effective response and prevention measures.

Tonga's dengue situation remains critical as well, with 889 confirmed cases and three reported deaths since the outbreak began on February 19, 2025. Authorities are focused on vector control and public education regarding preventive measures. Notably, the serotype identified is DENV-2, as per the Situation Report #64 from July 4, 2025.

In addition to dengue, other health concerns persist across the Pacific. French Polynesia reported five new influenza cases in EpiWeek 26, with a total of 584 cases since the beginning of 2025. A blue alert for influenza B has been issued due to the stable hospitalisation rates. In New Zealand, pertussis cases have surged, with 1,550 reported cases since January 2025. The New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science reported increased hospitalisation rates, particularly among infants.

As the Pacific Mini Games recently concluded in Palau, health authorities initiated enhanced surveillance and inspections due to the confirmation of a dengue case among attendees. Athletes and community members are advised to monitor their health closely and seek medical attention as necessary.

The ongoing epidemics highlight the urgent need for continued public health vigilance and proactive measures in the Pacific region. With the co-circulation of multiple dengue virus serotypes and the emergence of other infectious diseases, health authorities are working tirelessly to mitigate risks and protect public health.

In conclusion, as the Pacific faces these health challenges, it underscores the importance of coordinated public health responses, community engagement, and robust health infrastructure to combat the spread of diseases effectively.