Cook Islands reports first dengue death in current outbreak

The Cook Islands has reported its first dengue-related death during the current outbreak.

Amid a significant increase in cases, the country's health ministry confirmed that an elderly patient with underlying conditions arrived to hospital late in the disease's progression and died on 2 February. Authorities have now announced Operation Namu-26 to raise awareness and promote prevention measures. Dengue is a virus passed between people by mosquitos, and Operation Namu-26 will include an increase in insecticide spraying work on the affected islands, as well as a nation-wide clean up to reduce places where water could pool and mosquito eggs could be.

The Cook Islands declared a dengue outbreak in May 2025, and more than 500 cases have been recorded since. In New Zealand, 86 people had been reported to have contracted dengue, with 75 of those cases connected to travel to the Cook Islands. Cases had been found on the islands of Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Atiu, Mauke and Mangaia. Tourist companies would be providing dengue prevention items to visitors, and spraying on their properties following the ministry's guidelines.

Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms, headache, joint or muscle pain, or rash should seek urgent medical attention immediately so that timely care can be provided. New Zealand clinician and University of Auckland lecturer Dr Maryann Heather recently told RNZ that one in four people infected with dengue get sick. Symptoms include headaches, pain behind the eyes, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, joint pain, skin rash, lethargy, tiredness, and high fever, and can be severe.

The disease can be more dangerous for young children and elderly people. "If you aren't improving or concerned, you should seek medical attention, especially if you think you have dengue fever after returning from the islands," Heather said. "It's crucial to educate and warn people travelling back to the islands so they are aware that dengue fever is present, especially since it is seasonal.