Hospitals in Upolu and Savai‘i have confirmed ongoing treatment for dengue fever as Samoa grapples with a persistent outbreak. Since the declaration of the outbreak in April last year, the country has recorded eight dengue-related deaths, the latest being a seven-month-old baby girl. This tragic development was confirmed by the Assistant Director General of Health, Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen, who emphasized that the outbreak remains active.
Dr. Thomsen explained in a press statement that the outbreak can only be considered over once 28 days have passed without any new confirmed cases. In a recent seven-day period, the Ministry of Health reported 56 new cases and 11 new hospital admissions, underscoring the ongoing challenge.
Dengue Fever’s Impact on Samoa
The Ministry of Health officially declared a dengue fever outbreak in Samoa in April 2025. The outbreak has significantly disrupted daily life, including extended school breaks imposed across the nation. As of December 2025, nine official deaths had been recorded, with the number now rising to eight due to the recent fatality.
Dr. Thomsen highlighted the nature of dengue fever, describing it as a viral illness caused by four different types of dengue virus: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. The disease is primarily spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes, making mosquito control a critical component of public health efforts.
Ongoing Monitoring and Testing
According to the Ministry of Health, between January 26, 2025, and February 1, 2026, a total of 16,842 cases were confirmed across Samoa. More recently, Dr. Thomsen noted, “There are 56 new cases reported with 11 new hospital admissions.”
To better understand the outbreak’s dynamics, more samples are being prepared for testing in Australia. “O le taimi nei o loo tapena le toe auina atu o tatou samples i Melepone Ausetalia mo suesuega,” said Dr. Thomsen. He further explained that samples sent to Australia in November last year showed an increase in serotype DEN2 in the country.
“That is why we are sending more samples,” said Dr. Thomsen, “to determine whether DENV1 is still predominant, or whether DENV2 has increased.”
Public Health Measures and Future Steps
The Ministry of Health continues to urge the public to follow precautions aimed at reducing mosquito breeding sites. This includes removing standing water where mosquitoes can breed and using insect repellent to minimize the risk of bites.
The announcement comes as Samoa remains vigilant in its fight against dengue fever, a disease that has historically posed significant challenges to tropical regions. The ongoing outbreak highlights the importance of sustained public health efforts and international cooperation in managing infectious diseases.
As Samoa continues to monitor the situation, the health authorities are committed to keeping the public informed and taking necessary actions to safeguard the population. The Ministry of Health’s proactive approach, including international testing collaborations, aims to control the outbreak and prevent further loss of life.
