Keeping a close watch on public health across the Pacific region is vital, as several countries continue to grapple with infectious disease outbreaks. Regular reports from health organizations help communities and governments understand the current health landscape, enabling timely responses and preventive measures. The latest update reveals ongoing concerns over dengue fever, measles, and pertussis (whooping cough), alongside other health issues like rotavirus and ciguatera poisoning. ## Dengue Fever: A Persistent Threat in the Pacific Dengue, a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, remains a significant health challenge across Oceania. The disease can cause severe flu-like symptoms, and in some cases, life-threatening complications. Several Pacific nations are currently battling ongoing outbreaks. In New Caledonia, the epidemic continues with 1,190 cases reported between January and late April 2026, predominantly caused by the DENV-1 serotype. This sustained activity underscores the need for continuous mosquito control efforts and public awareness. Similarly, Samoa is experiencing a prolonged dengue epidemic, with DENV-1 and DENV-2 serotypes co-circulating. Recent figures show an increase in confirmed and clinically diagnosed cases, leading to more hospitalizations, particularly affecting children under 15 years old. Tonga also declared a dengue outbreak in early April 2026, recording 41 confirmed cases, with DENV-2 identified as the circulating strain. Most affected individuals are children and adolescents, primarily residing in Tongatapu. Conversely, the Cook Islands reported a low number of isolated cases, indicating a decline in transmission, which led to the cessation of a major control operation. Authorities are now considering declaring the country dengue-free. Despite this positive trend, DENV-1 and DENV-2 alerts are maintained as a precautionary measure. New Zealand has also reported imported dengue cases, with individuals returning from Samoa, the Cook Islands, Tonga, and Malaysia. This highlights the interconnectedness of global travel and disease spread. Meanwhile, Wallis and Futuna recently confirmed a local dengue case in Futuna, indicating ongoing community transmission there, while an imported case was noted in Wallis earlier in the year. Controlling mosquito breeding sites and promoting personal protective measures, such as using repellents and protective clothing, are critical steps in combating dengue. ## Measles Resurgence: A Global and Regional Concern Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, poses a serious threat, especially to unvaccinated populations. Its ability to spread rapidly through air and direct contact makes it a formidable public health challenge. Australia is seeing continued measles circulation, primarily linked to international travel and subsequent local transmission. Recent cases in New South Wales and Victoria have been traced to individuals returning from Japan and Southeast Asia, leading to public exposure alerts. Most affected individuals are either unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status. Health authorities are emphasizing the importance of receiving two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, particularly for those planning international travel. Globally, the situation remains concerning. Bangladesh is grappling with widespread and intense measles activity, with thousands of suspected and confirmed cases, and tragic deaths, mostly among children under five. A nationwide vaccination campaign is underway, but the sheer scale of the outbreak and high population mobility increase the risk of international spread. Japan has also reported a significant increase in measles cases in early 2026, surpassing the total for the previous year, with cases across multiple prefectures. This rise, coupled with extensive travel and upcoming large gatherings, heightens the risk of further imported cases into other countries. New Zealand also reported a local measles case in Wellington, with no known travel history or contact with previous cases. The individual was infectious while in various public places, prompting public health alerts and contact tracing efforts. Health authorities continue to stress the importance of checking and updating MMR vaccination status to protect against this preventable disease. ## Whooping Cough (Pertussis): Protecting Vulnerable Populations Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by bacteria. It can be particularly severe and even fatal for infants and young children. The Federated States of Micronesia, specifically Pohnpei State, continues to report cases, with unvaccinated children forming the majority of affected individuals. Enhanced surveillance, contact tracing, and community awareness are ongoing. Guam is also experiencing continued pertussis circulation, with 20 cases recorded since mid-2025, leading to hospitalizations. Health efforts there focus on epidemiological investigations, contact tracing, and vaccination, especially for infants, pregnant women, and close contacts. New Zealand has seen a steady increase in pertussis cases throughout 2026, with community transmission ongoing. While weekly numbers fluctuate, the total recorded cases highlight the widespread nature of the disease. Vanuatu, which experienced a peak in late 2025, is now seeing a slowing transmission rate, though the disease remains present. The outbreak disproportionately affects children, particularly those under nine years old and infants. A significant portion of reported cases involve unvaccinated individuals, with transmission concentrated in Efate and Tanna. Continued surveillance is crucial to prevent uncontrolled spread, and vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure. ## Rotavirus: Tackling Diarrheal Disease in Kiribati Rotavirus is a common cause of severe diarrhea, especially in young children. Kiribati has been dealing with a significant rotavirus outbreak, with over 6,000 cases of diarrhea reported nationally by late April 2026. The epidemic peaked in early March, and while cases have been steadily declining since mid-March, low-level circulation persisted in April. South Tarawa, particularly Betio, remains the area with the highest number of cases, with children under five being the most affected age group. The outbreak has led to 56 hospitalizations and three confirmed deaths, with two more deaths under investigation. The alert level for rotavirus in Kiribati has been lowered from red to blue, reflecting the decreasing trend, but enhanced surveillance and hygiene promotion are continuing. ## Ciguatera Poisoning: Monitoring Fish-Related Illnesses in Vanuatu Beyond infectious diseases, Vanuatu is also monitoring an ongoing increase in ciguatera poisoning cases. Ciguatera is a type of food poisoning caused by eating reef fish contaminated with toxins produced by microalgae. By mid-April 2026, 112 cases had been reported nationally, with the number steadily rising and exceeding the alert threshold since early April. Men aged 15-34 years are the most affected demographic, with cases reported across nine islands, primarily Efate. Most cases are linked to unidentified fish species, reef fish, and Karosol. Public health authorities are continuing surveillance to track trends and advise on safe fish consumption practices. ## The Critical Role of Public Health Surveillance and Community Action These ongoing health alerts underscore the critical importance of robust public health surveillance, early detection, and rapid response mechanisms. For diseases like dengue, effective vector control programs are paramount, alongside individual actions such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites and using personal protection. For vaccine-preventable diseases like measles and pertussis, maintaining high vaccination coverage is the most effective defense. Community engagement, promoting good hygiene practices (like handwashing for rotavirus prevention), and ensuring access to clean water and sanitation are fundamental to preventing and controlling outbreaks. Regional collaboration among Pacific nations, supported by organizations like the Pacific Community and the World Health Organization, is essential for sharing information, coordinating responses, and building stronger health systems. Every individual plays a role in public health by staying informed, following health advisories, and ensuring their vaccinations are up-to-date, especially before travel. Vigilance, preparedness, and collective action are key to safeguarding the health and well-being of communities across Oceania.