epidemic and disease alerts in the Pacific
emerging diseases in the Pacific.
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The latest reports on disease outbreaks in the Pacific region have provided insights into the current situation of various health concerns. From dengue cases in French Polynesia to influenza outbreaks in the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Island (CNMI), the region is facing multiple challenges in managing public health.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
As of the latest update, the Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI) has seen a recent increase in COVID-19 cases on Majuro Atoll. The Ministry of Health & Human Services (MoHHS) has issued a statement acknowledging the rise and is closely monitoring the situation to implement necessary measures to protect the community. Additionally, enhanced surveillance measures have been put in place for the Micronesian Games held from 15th to 24th June 2024.
Dengue Outbreaks
In EpiWeek 24, French Polynesia reported two new confirmed cases of dengue out of 29 samples tested. The total number of reported cases in the region now stands at 57, with no deaths or hospitalisations reported during this period. The blue alert for dengue is being maintained in the area to monitor and control the spread of the disease.
Meanwhile, Samoa has reported 7 new lab-confirmed cases of dengue, bringing the total to 425 cases since November 2023. The most affected age groups are children under 10 years old and adults over 60 years old. The North-West of Upolu (NWU) and Apia Urban Area (AUA) are the hotspots for dengue cases in Samoa.
Influenza A and Other Respiratory Illnesses
In CNMI, there has been a decrease in ILI cases from 43 in EpiWeek 23 to 33 in EpiWeek 24. Testing confirmed three cases of Influenza A out of 93 tests conducted. The blue alert for influenza is being maintained in the region to monitor the situation closely.
Similarly, in French Polynesia, there were 10 new confirmed cases of influenza A out of 98 tests conducted in EpiWeek 24. Among the reported cases, 6 required hospitalisation, including 2 in the ICU. Since April 1st, there have been 358 confirmed influenza cases in the region, with 169 requiring hospitalisation and 10 deaths.
Other Disease Updates
Avian Influenza
Australia, specifically New South Wales, has confirmed the presence of H7 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) on a poultry farm in Greater Sydney. The strain detected is genetically related to viruses found in Australian wild birds and is not the H5 strain causing global concern. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further spread of the disease.
Diarrhoea Outbreak
In Pohnpei State, Federated States of Micronesia, there has been a significant rise in diarrhoea cases, with a 135% increase above the 5-year weekly average. The cases have affected all age groups, with children under 5 being predominantly affected. Norovirus and pathogenic E. coli have been identified in some specimens, and intensive infection control measures are being implemented to curb the outbreak.
Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
The CNMI community has reported a rise in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease cases, with 16 confirmed cases and 13 potential cases in EpiWeek 23. The authorities are actively engaged in community outreach efforts to contain the spread of HFMD and provide necessary information to the public.
These updates highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the Pacific region in managing and controlling various disease outbreaks. Vigilance, proactive measures, and public awareness are crucial in combating these health concerns.
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1. Epidemic and emerging disease alerts in the Pacific as of June World
2. Epidemic and emerging disease alerts in the Pacific as of June Pacific.
