In a recent update by the Ministry of Health, alarming figures regarding the spread of dengue fever have come to light. 

Dated April 29, 2024, for the epidemic week 17 spanning from April 22 to April 28, the report unveils a distressing surge in lab-confirmed dengue cases, adding to the growing concerns surrounding public health.

According to the highlights provided, a staggering total of 298 lab-confirmed dengue cases have been documented since November 2023, painting a grim picture of the escalating epidemic. 

The latest epiweek alone witnessed the addition of 48 new lab-confirmed cases, further exacerbating the urgency of the situation. 

Despite the surge in cases, no dengue-related deaths have been reported so far, offering a glimmer of relief amidst the escalating crisis.

Disturbingly, the majority of the affected individuals fall within the vulnerable demographics of those under 10 years old and those over 60 years old, underscoring the heightened susceptibility of these age groups to the debilitating effects of the disease. 

The prevalence of dengue cases is particularly pronounced in densely populated regions such as the Apia Urban Area (AUA) and the North West of Upolu (N.W.U.), where the disease has taken a firm grip, prompting intensified efforts to contain its spread.

The Ministry of Health has outlined specific case definitions to facilitate the identification and management of suspected and confirmed cases. 

Suspected cases are characterized by clinical manifestations including acute fever higher than 38 degrees Celsius persisting for at least two days, accompanied by a combination of symptoms such as anorexia and nausea, aches and pains, rash, low white blood cell count, and warning signs such as abdominal pain or tenderness, persistent vomiting, mucosal bleeding, among others.

For confirmed cases, stringent laboratory criteria are employed, encompassing the isolation of the dengue virus or the detection of dengue-specific antigen or antibodies in tissue, blood, cerebrospinal fluid (C.S.F.), or other bodily fluids through advanced laboratory testing. 

These rigorous diagnostic measures aim to ensure accurate identification and prompt treatment of confirmed cases, thus mitigating the risk of further transmission within the community.

The 61 cases highlighted in a previous update from the ministry last week for the same reported period were cases of dengue like illness reported to the ministry. 

The 48 cases contained in the update distributed to the media on Monday are lab-confirmed cases of dengue fever. 

The Ministry declared a dengue outbreak over two weeks ago and urged the public to clean up their houses and join their efforts in protecting everyone from mosquitos. 

Furthermore, the ministry has carried out fumigation procedures for schools in the town area in the last weeks.