Samoa Dengue Outbreak Continues into 2026

The dengue fever outbreak in Samoa, which began in early 2025, is ongoing as of March 2026. As of March 8, 2026 (EpiWeek 10), a total of 17,402 clinically diagnosed cases and 5,117 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported .

Current Situation

During EpiWeek 10 (March 2–8, 2026), 187 new cases were reported, representing a 7% decrease from the previous week. Ten new hospital admissions were recorded during the same period, with no new admissions to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or dengue-related deaths .

Geographic Distribution and Demographics

Transmission remains widespread across both Upolu and Savai’i islands, with 64% of cases originating from Upolu and 36% from Savai’i . A disproportionate number of cases are occurring in children under 15 years of age, accounting for 74% of all reported infections . The Apia Urban Area and North West Upolu, specifically the Faleata District, are experiencing the highest concentration of cases .

Viral Serotypes

Two-thirds of the cases have been identified as Dengue virus serotype 1 (DENV-1), while the remaining one-third are DENV-2 .

Mortality

As of March 2026, the outbreak has resulted in nine deaths, including a seven-month-old infant who recently succumbed to the disease . Seven deaths were recorded prior to December 2025 .

Outbreak Control and Preparedness

Health authorities are continuing sensitization and awareness programs, including collaborations with community groups such as Sui o Nuu, Sui Tamaitai o Nuu and Sui ole Malo, to strengthen preparedness for potential outbreaks of other diseases, such as measles . These programs emphasize the importance of vaccination, particularly in areas with low vaccination coverage.

Declaration of Outbreak Over

According to established protocols, the outbreak will be declared over when no new laboratory-confirmed cases are detected for a period of 28 days (two incubation periods of 14 days each) .