Alerts have been issued for epidemic and emerging diseases in the Pacific region as of July 16, 2024. The latest updates highlight the situation of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and Dengue in various locations.
In Hawai’i, a decrease in COVID-19 cases has been reported with a drop in the test positivity rate and daily cases. Hospitalizations have also shown a decline, leading to a downgrade of the COVID-19 alert level from red to blue. The Department of Health Respiratory Disease Dashboard indicates a medium level of COVID-19 activity in the state.
French Polynesia has confirmed new dengue cases, with active transmission of the virus in Tahiti, Moorea, and Nuku-Hiva. The majority of cases reside in Tahiti, with serotyped cases identified as DENV-1 and DENV-2. The blue alert for dengue in French Polynesia is being maintained due to ongoing transmission.
In Samoa, 12 new lab-confirmed dengue cases were reported in EpiWeek 27, bringing the total cases to 468 since November 2023. No hospitalizations or deaths were reported during this period, with the most affected age group being 20 to 29 years. The North-West of Upolu and Apia Urban Area are the most affected regions, with pending serotype results.
These updates emphasize the importance of continued vigilance and public health measures to combat the spread of infectious diseases in the Pacific region.
