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One new active dengue case, four recovered

Thursday 15 May 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Health, National

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One new active dengue case, four recovered
Secretary of Health Bob Williams. TMO/24040122

All four dengue cases reported in the Cook Islands have recovered, with only one new active case remaining, says Secretary for Health Bob Williams.

Williams yesterday confirmed that the previously mentioned four cases had fully recovered.

The single active case, detected last week, is currently being monitored by health officials.

The latest update comes after Cook Islander Poaurii Tanner, one of the four initial dengue cases, who described her recovery as more difficult than her previous encounter with the virus.

Tanner, 38, said this recent bout was marked by severe symptoms, including aches, nausea, and intense sweating, which lasted longer compared to her first experience with dengue several years ago.

Health officials previously confirmed that one of the earlier cases involved a person who had travelled to Fiji and contracted Dengue serotype 2.

However, subsequent cases indicated possible local transmission, as two of the affected individuals had no recent travel history.

Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health (TMO) has continued its efforts to prevent a potential outbreak by implementing vector control measures, including perifocal spraying and ongoing larvae control programmes.

These actions are part of a strategic response to reduce the population of Aedes mosquitoes, the known carrier of the dengue virus.

Despite no significant disruptions to public life, TMO remains on high alert, conducting risk assessments and maintaining readiness for any potential new cases.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, follow precautionary measures, and seek medical advice if experiencing symptoms.

The Ministry of Health continues to work with regional health agencies to monitor the situation and ensure effective response coordination.

Williams has reiterated the importance of maintaining cleanliness and hygiene to reduce mosquito breeding. That is to keep your homes and surroundings clean, eliminate stagnant water, and take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites.