22 May 2025 (CKT)
Te Marae Ora (TMO) – Ministry of Health has officially declared a dengue fever outbreak in Rarotonga, following confirmation of two (2) new cases today. This brings the total number of locally acquired dengue cases to seven (7).
Te Marae Ora reassures our community and visitors that all confirmed Dengue Fever cases remain limited to Rarotonga, and that there are no cases in the Pa Enua.
What’s happening now
To stop the spread of dengue, the Government has activated Operation Namu25. This response includes:
- Community clean-up across Rarotonga on Friday 23 May (weather permitting)
- Vector control and spraying around areas with confirmed cases
- Coordination with Pa Enua Island Governments to stay dengue-free.
Island councils, Puna leads EMCI, and government agencies are working together to support this national effort. Pa Enua communities are also preparing their own local response.
About Dengue fever
Dengue Fever is spread by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito. It cases symptoms such as:
- High fever
- Severe headaches
- Joint and muscle pain
- Skin rash
- In rare cases, serious illness requiring hospital care
The mosquito is most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
What we know so far
- Two (2) new positive cases have been identified since Monday, 19th May 2025
- Seven (7) local cases in the last 18 days (outbreak threshold reached)
- Eleven (11) isolated cases since February 2025
- Local transmission is confirmed
- Recent rain and humidity have increased mosquito activity.
Public Health response:
- Operation Namu25 approved by Cabinet 20 May
- Stakeholder meetings held with Puna leads, government agencies, and Cook Islands Tourism Corporation.
- Island-wide clean-up day this Friday – everyone is encouraged to join
- Peri-focal spraying has started and continues for the next two weeks
- Surveillance extended across the Pa Enua
- All clinics and health facilities remain alert and well-equipped to manage any further cases
- WHO and regional health partners have been informed. No travel restrictions, but travellers are advised to take precautions.
How you can help
Tip it. Cover it. Clear it.
1. Tip it – empty water from buckets, pot plants, tires or coconut shells
2. Cover it – seal or cover containers to keep mosquitos from laying eggs or from water building up on the inside
3. Clear it – remove rubbish from in your property that can collect rainwater.
TMO also encourages everyone to apply insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and use mosquito screens where possible.
Please seek medical care if you have any of the following symptoms:
- High fever
- Headache or pain behind the eyes
- Muscle or joint aches
- Skin rash
Bob Williams Secretary of Health, says:
“We urge everyone to help stop the spread of dengue in our communities. By working together, we can protect our families and prevent dengue from reaching the Pa Enua. Let’s take action now.”
For more details or if you have concerns, please contact:
- Public Health Office: +682 29110
- Tupapa Primary Health Care: +682 20065 or +682 20066
- Email: tmo.helpdesk@cookislands.gov.ck
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CookIslandsHealth
ENDS
Media Release – Dengue Fever Outbreak 22 MAY 2025Download