The Ministry of Health has confirmed a significant decline in the number of dengue fever cases across Samoa, offering a much-needed reprieve after weeks of heightened concern.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, Acting Director-General of Health, Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen, confirmed that recent reports from district hospitals on both Upolu and Savai’i show a downward trend in new dengue fever infections.

“I’m sorry you called, but we hadn’t yet sent the latest update,” Dr. Thomsen said. “But I can confirm that the number of people affected by dengue fever is decreasing. The cases being reported from district hospitals in Upolu and Savai’i are going down.”

This update comes after increased public health alerts in recent months as dengue fever cases began to rise, prompting nationwide awareness campaigns and community efforts to reduce mosquito breeding grounds. The Ministry of Health has been actively monitoring the outbreak, conducting testing and data collection through local clinics and hospitals.

Dr. Thomsen emphasised that while the situation is improving, the majority of recent cases have been among young people. “Most of those affected are children aged 15 and under,” he said. Despite the high number of pediatric cases, there is some relief in knowing that the virus has not recently claimed any lives. “There have been no recent deaths due to dengue fever,” he added.

Health officials continue to urge the public to remain vigilant by keeping their surroundings clean, emptying stagnant water containers, and using mosquito repellents and bed nets where necessary.

The Ministry is expected to release an updated report on the dengue situation later this week, with continued monitoring across the country. Dr. Thomsen reiterated that the Ministry remains committed to containing the outbreak and protecting public health.

The public is encouraged to report symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, and fatigue to the nearest health facility as early as possible for proper testing and treatment.