Two confirmed dengue deaths in Tonga

Two people died of dengue in Tonga. The news was confirmed by Health Minister Dr Ana ‘Akau-ola, who said that the victims are a 19-year-old and a 7-month-old. The Pacific nation declared an outbreak of the disease in February. Speaking with Pacific Waves, ‘Akau-ola said that type two dengue fever is the one most diagnosed in the country, but after the two deaths, she suspects the presence of another strain. She asked health officials to check again with newly diagnosed patients to confirm that they were infected with dengue type two. Tests to determine the dengue serotype are sent to New Zealand for analysis. ‘Akau-ola mentioned the simultaneous presence of type two and three in Fiji, which is also experiencing a dengue outbreak this season. Recently, Samoa and the Cook Islands have also confirmed dengue cases.
At present, there are 588 confirmed cases in Tonga. However, ‘Akau-Ola said there are likely more cases than those officially reported. Many people are regularly admitted to the hospital with symptoms typical of the disease, including fever, lethargy, body aches, and headache, particularly behind the eyes.