Dengue fever persists in American Samoa
More government warnings on the continuous presence of dengue fever in American Samoa in the post-Cyclone Gita period have been issued.
The infection is still spreading, and travellers are advised to take effective mosquito bite avoidance measures.
Tonga is also in the region affected by the cyclone and has reported more than 70 suspected cases of dengue fever. A clean-up campaign is targeting mosquito breeding sites, focusing on the central district.
The disease is spread by two types of Aedes mosquitoes, both of which breed close to dwellings, are found in shady areas and bite mainly during the daylight hours, which makes them difficult to avoid outdoors. Travellers are therefore advised to cover up when mosquitoes are most active and also apply repellent that contains an active ingredient when outdoors to any exposed skin.