Over the past five weeks, New Zealand has deployed 28 medical and logistics personnel from the New Zealand Medical Assistance Team (NZMAT), including doctors and nurses, to collaborate with Samoan health workers.

Following a significant decline in dengue fever cases across Samoa, New Zealand has intensified its support to assist ongoing containment and recovery efforts.

New Zealand has also contributed approximately $300,000 worth of vital medical supplies and equipment to aid hospitals, clinics, and community health initiatives focused on managing the outbreak. This assistance reflects New Zealand’s commitment to standing alongside Pacific neighbours during health emergencies.

Last week, the response was bolstered by the arrival of four doctors from the Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT), reinforcing strong regional cooperation between New Zealand, Australia, and Pacific nations.

High Commissioner Si’alei van Toor reaffirmed New Zealand’s support, stating, “Samoa and New Zealand share a special relationship beyond geography. Our thoughts remain with families affected by the outbreak, and New Zealand will continue to do everything possible to assist Samoa during this critical time.”

NZMAT Clinical Lead Dr Alan Goodey praised the dedication of Samoa’s health professionals: “Their resilience and commitment have been inspiring. We are privileged to support their efforts in hospitals and communities. Practical measures such as mosquito spraying, distribution of nets, and public health education campaigns are key to managing dengue’s spread.”

This support follows confirmation from Acting Director-General of Health Tagaloa Dr Robert Thomsen that dengue cases have been steadily declining, offering a much-needed reprieve after weeks of concern. “The number of people affected by dengue fever is decreasing,” Dr Thomsen said, noting downward trends reported from district hospitals across Upolu and Savai’i.

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral illness, has placed pressure on Samoa’s healthcare system, with symptoms ranging from high fever and severe headaches to, in rare cases, hemorrhagic fever. Effective vector control and community engagement remain critical.

Samoa Observer reached out to Dr Thomsen for further comment on the ongoing dengue response and international assistance, but was unsuccessful at the time of publication.

The New Zealand Government continues to advise travellers to Samoa and the Pacific to monitor updates on the SafeTravel website and to register travel details for timely communication during emergencies.

As Samoa moves towards recovery, the combined efforts of local health workers and international partners like New Zealand and Australia are essential to safeguarding public health and strengthening regional resilience.