Samoa’s Ministry of Health, has warned that dengue fever is far from over as cases are expected to peak within the next three weeks.
Acting Director General of Health, Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen, told Samoa Observer that data showed the number of cases is still climbing and will likely reach its highest point before the end of August.
Since the outbreak was declared on April 17, Samoa has recorded over 5,600 clinical dengue cases.
Four deaths have been confirmed, with another one classified as probable dengue-related.
The Ministry has intensified fumigation operations across the country, focusing on schools, hospitals, and high-risk residential areas.
Schools have been closed for two weeks to allow for full fumigation and will remain shut this week.
Health officials are assessing whether it will be safe for schools to reopen next week, depending on the situation.
The Acting Health Director General stressed that while the Ministry is doing everything it can, community action is essential in controlling the outbreak.
