Dengue Fever Outbreak on-going in New Caledonia

Created by sue. Last modified on 2008-07-09 17:02:33
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Countries: New Caledonia

NOUMÉA, New Caledonia

The outbreak of mosquito-transmitted dengue fever in New Caledonia has so far affected over 900 persons in the French Pacific territory since the beginning of this year.

Latest official statistics published locally by the health and social affairs department reveal a staggering 912 known cases since January 1, 2008.

The health department told local media the figures were still rising at a pace of one to two new cases per day, even though the humid season was theoretically over.

But abundant rains have continued to affect New Caledonia in recent weeks and local temperatures have also been labeled warmer than usual.

The fresh statistics also come despite an intensive prevention and eradication campaign launched several months ago.

The main worry was that when the hot and humid season comes back, some time in September, the existing situation might constitute a fertile ground for a fresh and even more intense epidemic, local health authorities feared.

The current epidemic, which is mainly centered on the capital Nouméa and its suburbs, has however not caused so far any death this year.

The worst dengue epidemic in New Caledonia dates back to 2003, when 19 persons died.

But public health programs head Anne Pfannstiel said there was an urgency to contain the existing situation.

The main advice remained focused on urging individuals to see their doctor when suffering any symptom that could be easily mistaken for influenza.

Dengue fever has been prevalent in New Caledonia since February this year.