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Dengue Situation Update, 3 June 2014

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Regional dengue activity is variable. The recent trend for dengue is increasing in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Malaysia and Singapore. Compared to 2013, Malaysia was the only country of these four where 2014 was substantially higher compared to the same period in 2013.

Dengue virus infection in the Pacific Region

High level of dengue activity is being observed in a number of Pacific Island Countries and Areas (PICs). Dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV-2) has recently been isolated in Tuvalu in spite of DENV-3 being the current predominant strain. In 2013, DENV-3 re-emerged in several countries and territories in the South Pacific after nearly 20 years. DENV-1 is also circulating in a number of PICs. WHO is closely monitoring the situation in the Region, especially with regard to serotype circulation.

In French Polynesia, the dengue epidemic continues. As of 28 May 2014 the total number of positive cases of dengue reported since February 2013 is 2,188.

In the Solomon Islands, a DENV-3 outbreak is occurring. As of 23 May 2014, 1,513 cases have been reported since January 2014. In the past week, 124 suspected cases were reported. Dengue mosquito surveys in high transmission areas are being conducted, to determine, among other things, the effectiveness of current vector control measures as well as give an indication of the current endemic vector/disease dynamic.

In Tuvalu, DENV-2 has been identified in samples sent to the Institut Louis Malarde (ILM) reference laboratory, French Polynesia. Of the 46 specimens that were sent to ILM, 26 were positive (RT-PCR) for dengue virus serotype 2. Response measures have been carried out and this includes: cleaning campaigns, spraying and live radio programs.

In Nauru, 221 suspected dengue cases have been tested by IgM ELISA and/or rapid test with NS1/IgM; 70 have tested positive. Confirmation of circulating serotype(s) is underway and samples will be sent to ILM reference laboratory in French Polynesia. The number of cases continues to decrease.

Zika virus infection in the Pacific region

Recently, a number of islands and territories have detected zika virus.

In Cook Islands, the outbreak is largely over. Only 4 new cases were reported this week.

The total number of suspected cases since the beginning of the outbreak (13 February, 2014) is 932.
Zika virus infection is usually a mild disease; no hospitalizations directly related to acute infection have been reported. However, recently, a more severe single case of zika