Dengue fever alert from DOH as cases climb by 13 in one week

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed that the increased number of dengue fever cases as of yesterday is 79, up from 66 last week. 

This was confirmed by Territorial Epidemiologist Adam Konrote in a press conference Thursday morning at the DOH headquarters in Tafuna. 

He stated that of the 79 cases, 37 have been identified as imported cases and 36 as local cases. That’s an increase of 2 imported cases and 11 local cases from last week’s reported 66 cases.

Six cases are currently under investigation to identify where these individuals contracted the virus, the same as reported last week.

“The majority of patients continue to fall within the age group of 11 to 15 years of age, with about 75% of patients presenting to the LBJ emergency room. As of this report, six patients are currently admitted. Last week 3 cases were reported as ‘currently hospitalized’.

“However, we have not received any reports that these are cases of severe ding. While the health system continues to provide clinical care, our highest priority at this time is vector control and source reduction. This means identifying and eliminating mosquito breeding sites in our homes, schools, and communities,” said Konrote. 

Moreover, he emphasized that dengue fever cannot be transmitted without the presence of mosquitoes, which are the primary vectors for the virus.

He highlighted that every initiative they undertake is specifically designed to minimize breeding grounds for these mosquitoes, ultimately aiming to safeguard the health and well-being of the community. Konrote took this opportunity to educate the public about the key symptoms of dengue. 

“These can include fever, headache, eye pain, muscle joint pain, nausea, and a rash.

“If you have these symptoms, please go to your nearest community health Center as soon as possible.

“Early checkups are essential because … can wear them quickly, and getting care early makes a huge difference in your recovery. 

“If you notice danger signs such as severe stomach pain, constant vomiting, bleeding, dizziness, or trouble breathing, we recommend that you go visit the emergency room as soon as possible.

“These are severe warning signs that need urgent attention. 

“Now, for everyone else that appears with mild, moderate symptoms, a kind reminder that we do have community health centers that are fully equipped to deal with dengue cases. This way, we avoid overwhelming the emergency room.

”In the event, we start to see a surge in cases,” said the local Epidemiologist. 

According to Konrote, the community health centers are equipped to handle dengue cases and are available to provide assistance. 

“However, if your symptoms are severe and you think it's an emergency, please feel free to report directly to the emergency room.

“We encourage everyone to stay alert, take preventive measures, and seek medical care promptly if symptoms appear. Acting quickly helps protect you, your family, and the entire community,” he said.