The dengue virus has claimed another victim. While New Caledonia recorded an eleventh death in early July, it is French Polynesia’s turn to be affected. A 7-year-old child died in Moorea on July 21, the Health Directorate said in its latest epidemiological bulletin.
Originally from Rimatara, the child had stayed in Tahiti before seeing a doctor in Moorea, specifies TNTV News. His state of health was already degraded and treatment did not save him. Tests indicated that he had been infected with a type 1 virus.
Type 2 worries
25 cases of dengue have been confirmed in Polynesia, of which half were children under the age of 15. The health authorities believe for the time being that the activity of dengue remains “moderate”. However, concern remains in the archipelago about a possible epidemic of type 2 dengue.
This virus is circulating in several islands in the Pacific, including New Caledonia. However, in French Polynesia, “the last epidemic linked to serotype 2 dates back to 1996, then this serotype then circulated until 2000”, specifies the Health Watch Office of the Department of Health. A large part of the population is therefore not immune to the virus.
Vigilance maintained
New Caledonia has suffered an outbreak of dengue fever in recent months. According to the New Caledonian authorities, nearly 5,000 cases have been identified since 1er September 2016. The peak of the epidemic was reached in March 2017. The number of clinical or suspected cases has decreased since, but 11 deaths have occurred since January.
The health authorities ask the populations to remain vigilant and not to lower their guard against mosquitoes. Despite the return of the cool season, these pests can still act and transmit the dengue virus. In addition to protection against mosquito bites, residents are also asked to destroy breeding sites in their garden (flower pots full of water, uncleaned gutters) and at their homes.
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