Headline: Dengue and Pertussis Cases Rise in French Polynesia and New Caledonia
Recent Updates on Dengue and Pertussis Outbreaks
In the latest health surveillance report, French Polynesia has registered new cases of both dengue and pertussis, raising concern among health officials. The cumulative total for dengue cases since November 27, 2023, has reached 207 confirmed infections, indicating a persistent health challenge in the region. Additionally, pertussis is making headlines, with clusters of cases raising alarms, especially among young children. The blue and red alerts remain in effect as authorities continue their efforts to control the spread of these diseases.
Dengue Situation in French Polynesia
According to the Bulletin de surveillance sanitaire de Polynésie française, EpiWeek 42 saw the confirmation of 18 new dengue cases from a total of 73 samples tested. Among these cases, twelve individuals were residents of Tahiti, while the others hailed from nearby islands like Moorea and Bora-Bora. This brings the total number of reported dengue cases to 207, comprising 191 confirmed cases and 16 probable cases.
- Recent Hospitalizations: Two hospitalizations were reported for dengue in EpiWeek 42, affecting a 9-year-old and an 18-year-old. Fortunately, no severe cases or deaths have been documented since November 2023.
- Positivity Rate: The positivity rate remains stable at 25% for EpiWeek 42.
- New Cases in Tourists: In EpiWeek 43, two visitors contracting the virus in Huahine and Raiatea highlight the potential for further transmission in tourist hotspots.
Analysis of 154 serotyped samples indicates that DENV-2 was identified in 44% of cases, while DENV-1 accounted for 56%. The affected populations primarily consist of children and young adults, many of whom are recent residents.
Pertussis Outbreak in French Polynesia
Meanwhile, the pertussis outbreak poses an alarming issue as French Polynesia reported 191 confirmed cases between June 14 and October 20, 2024. EpiWeek 42 saw 33 new cases, while EpiWeek 43 recorded an additional 24 confirmed cases.
- Cluster at a School: A concerning cluster of at least nine probable and confirmed cases emerged in a school in Papeete, prompting health officials to increase surveillance and preventive measures.
- Hospitalizations Among Children: Among the total cases, ten children were hospitalized, including eight infants aged eight months or younger. The positivity rate remains stable at 12% for EpiWeek 42.
New Caledonia’s Pertussis Situation
Across the waters in New Caledonia, the situation is similarly pressing, with 79 reported cases of pertussis as of October 13, 2024, from 497 samples tested since the beginning of the year. Of these:
- Case Distribution: 62 cases were identified as Bordetella pertussis and 17 as Bordetella parapertussis.
- Demographics: The majority of cases are females (67%) and children aged 0-14 years (44%), which includes four infants under six months of age.
- Regional Incidence Rates: The Southern Province accounts for 57% of all cases, with an incidence rate of 2.2 per 10,000 inhabitants, while the Islands Province reports a higher incidence of 11.4 per 10,000.
Government Response and Public Health Implications
Health authorities in both French Polynesia and New Caledonia are urging the public to maintain heightened awareness and adhere to health recommendations. The ongoing outbreaks highlight the importance of vaccination and community engagement in controlling disease spread.
Local health departments continue to deploy resources for contact tracing, treatment, and education, particularly in school settings where clusters of cases have emerged. The maintenance of blue and red alerts reflects a cautious yet proactive stance in safeguarding public health.
The implications of these outbreaks extend beyond immediate health concerns; they could influence tourism and local economies, calling attention to the need for comprehensive public health strategies.
Stay Informed and Engaged
We encourage our readers to stay informed about these developments and share their thoughts on how communities can better prepare for and respond to such health crises. Your insights and experiences are invaluable as we navigate these challenges together. Feel free to share this article with your network and engage in discussions on our platform.
