As of now, there have been no cases of dengue fever reported by LBJ Hospital or the Department of Health.
But with dengue spreading in Samoa, Director of Health Motusa Tuileama Nua says they will begin spraying schools to get rid of mosquitoes this week. “We’re working together with the Department of Education and the plan is to begin spraying schools on Friday,” he told KHJ News.
DOH is also requesting assistance from the Office of Samoan Affairs in village activities to get rid of mosquito breeding sites and maintain cleanliness.
According to the director, random testing is being carried out at the airport for travelers arriving from Samoa; and DoH and LBJ are closely monitoring the dengue spread in Samoa. At this time, they are not considering any special requirements for travelers arriving from Samoa.
Last week, Samoa declared a dengue fever outbreak after a surge in dengue cases. In its report for the period of April 1-14, Samoa’s Ministry of Health said the country had 216 laboratory-confirmed cases from November 2023 to the end of that two-week reporting period.
The Samoa Cabinet has approved a half-day holiday for government employees tomorrow to support a national cleanup campaign to prevent the spread of dengue fever.
In its weekly meeting, yesterday, the Cabinet confirmed that the Ministry of Health will spearhead campaigns for the dengue fever outbreak declaration, including the special day for a national cleanup campaign.
