Pago Pago, AMERIAN SAMOA — As of last week, American Samoa has documented a total of 782 laboratory-confirmed cases of dengue fever, according to the Department of Health and epidemiologist Adam Konrote. The majority of these infections are among children aged 11 to 15, highlighting a particular vulnerability within this age group.

Konrote indicated that dengue virus transmission remains active, with overall disease activity still classified as high. Health officials anticipate that the number of cases may continue to rise in the coming weeks, potentially straining healthcare resources. Fortunately, the majority of cases have been managed effectively without severe complications, largely due to timely medical interventions that have afforded patients the care needed to mitigate risks.

In response to the outbreak, environmental health teams are implementing a range of proactive measures, including targeted spraying to reduce mosquito populations, source-reduction initiatives to eliminate breeding sites, and community outreach to educate residents about prevention strategies. Residents are strongly urged to take immediate action by removing standing water from their properties, as even small containers can serve as breeding sites for mosquitoes. This includes disposing of trash, tires, and bulky waste, and trimming overgrown grass that can trap water. 

Residents are also advised to use personal protective measures, such as applying mosquito repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and seeking prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, severe headaches, joint or muscle pain, nausea, or rashes.

MEASLES

Konrote further addressed public health concerns regarding measles, stating that, as of now, there are no confirmed cases in American Samoa.

However, the DOH continues to stress the importance of vigilance in monitoring for the disease, particularly due to heightened surveillance related to ongoing global music events. “We have implemented monitoring at ports of entry to swiftly identify any potential travel-related cases,” Konrote stated. Healthcare providers are trained to promptly report and isolate any suspected measles cases, enabling rapid response and containment.

The epidemiologist emphasized that measles is highly contagious, spreading easily through respiratory droplets. The MMR vaccine — which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella — is available at all Department of Health community health centers. Vaccination remains the most effective strategy to prevent the spread of measles. 

DOH aims to achieve a 95% vaccination rate to establish herd immunity within the population; to do so, they require community cooperation. Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure their children receive all routine vaccinations on schedule. Additionally, returning travelers should closely monitor themselves for any symptoms, such as fever or rash, and promptly inform healthcare providers of their recent travel history.

NIPAH VIRUS

Regarding the Nipah Virus, Konrote reported that two recent cases have been identified in South Asia, constituting a small, localized cluster. The current outbreak is characterized by a limited number of confirmed cases, prompting local authorities to conduct thorough contact tracing. Monitoring efforts have specifically included household members, close contacts, and healthcare workers who had direct interactions with confirmed cases. 

“Containment measures, including isolation of infected individuals, continuous monitoring of contacts, and implementation of strict infection control protocols, are currently in place to minimize any potential spread of the virus,” Konrote explained. 

At this point, there is no evidence of widespread community transmission of the Nipah Virus in American Samoa or the wider Pacific region, and the risk level to the territory remains low.

The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to closely monitor developments and collaborate with regional and federal partners to ensure preparedness. Should the situation evolve, the public will be promptly informed with relevant updates.