Tupapa has recorded the highest number of dengue cases, with five of the 11 reported since February this year.

A dengue outbreak has been declared in Rarotonga by Te Marae Ora (TMO) Ministry of Health after the number of locally acquired cases reached seven, prompting an island-wide clean-up effort yesterday to control the spread.

According to TMO situation report, Tupapa is currently the area with the highest number of cases, with three different homes affected. This is followed by Ruaau and Titikaveka, each with two cases, and Ngatangiia and Nikao, each reporting one case. RAPA, Takuvaine, Akaoa and Murienua have not reported any cases yet.

From the 11 cases reported so far, 10 are DENV-1 cases and one of DENV-2 virus. The DENV-1 type is from the Tupapa area.

Te Marae Ora has conducted 61 swabs so far. From the 11 confirmed cases as of May 22, three were hospitalisation cases.

Te Marae Ora has reassured that all confirmed dengue fever cases remain limited to Rarotonga, and that there are no cases in the Pa Enua.

Bob Williams, Secretary for Health, has urged everyone to help stop the spread of dengue in the communities.

“By working together, we can protect our families and prevent dengue from reaching the Pa Enua. Let’s take action now,” Williams said.

What to know about dengue:

The Aedes Aegypti mosquito spreads dengue. It cases symptoms such as:

• High fever
• Severe headaches
• Joint and muscle pain
• Skin rash
• In rare cases, serious illness requiring hospital care
• The mosquito is most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
• Recent rain and humidity have increased mosquito activity.

How you can help

Tip it. Cover it. Clear it.

1. Tip it – empty water from buckets, pot plants, tires or coconut shells

2. Cover it – seal or cover containers to keep mosquitoes from laying eggs or from water building up on the inside

3. Clear it – remove rubbish from your property that can collect rainwater.

TMO also encourages everyone to apply insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and use mosquito screens where possible.

• Please seek medical care if you have any of the following symptoms:
• High fever
• Headache or pain behind the eyes
• Muscle or joint aches
• Skin rash

Also read: Communities unite for dengue clean-up across Rarotonga