Dengue fever in Tahiti: causes, vectors, statistics and prevention

Preamble 

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes and constitutes a public health problem majeur in French Polynesia. With recurring epidemics for several decades, it has been essential to understand the causes, modes of transmission and preventative measures to limit its spread.

What is dengue fever?

Dengue is an infection caused by a virus belonging to the family of flaviviridae. It exists four distinct serotypes of the dengue virus (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3 and DEN-4), each of which can cause symptoms ranging from benign à severe. A person infected with a serotype acquires a lasting immunity against itMore remains vulnerable to others.

Transmission vectors

Dengue fever is transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes, mainly Aedes aegypti et Aedes polynesiensis in French Polynesia. These mosquitoes bite mainly during the day and this breed in stagnant waters, which favors their proliferation in the urban areas et peri-urban.

Causes and factors of propagation

Several factors contribute to the spread of dengue fever in Tahiti:

• • Weather conditions : the humid tropical climate favors the reproduction of mosquitoes.

  • Urbanisation : population density and the presence of stagnant water reservoirs increase the risk of transmission.

  • International travel : the introduction of new serotypes can occur via infected travelers.

  • Lack of widespread vaccine : although vaccines exist, access to them remains limited. Indeed, dengue vaccines are mainly intended for populations living in endemic areas. This reduces the number of doses sold globally. And of course, this makes these products too unprofitable for laboratories. They therefore prefer to concentrate on vaccines against influenza or Covid, from afar much more lucrative for them.

Symptoms and progression of the disease

Symptoms of dengue fever usually appear 4 to 10 days after the bite and include:

• • Sudden high fever

  • Headaches and retro-orbital pain

  • Muscle and joint pain

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Rash around day 5

In some cases, dengue fever can progress to severe form with bleeding complications and a state of shock. But I assure you, this only concerns 1 to 5% cases.

Statistics and impact in Tahiti

It is now high time to give you the figures for the epidemic since 2023:

• • 663 reported cases since November 2023.

  • Dominant serotype : DENV-1 (100% of samples serotyped).

  • 38% of cases concern people under the age of 20 years.

  • No severe forms or deaths reported to date.

Where is the dengue epidemic in 2025?

Prevention and control of dengue fever

In response to this epidemic, several measures have been put in place:

1. Elimination of larval breeding sites

Fighting dengue begins with the elimination of mosquito breeding grounds :

• • Removal of stagnant water (pots, vases, gutters).

  • Cleaning containers able to accumulate water.

  • Raising awareness among residents to the maintenance of their environment.

2. Personal protection

To avoid mosquito bites, it is recommended:

• • To use repellents adapted.

  • To wear long clothes.

  • To install mosquito nets at the windows and on the beds.

  • To use electric diffusers or mosquito coils.

3. Health monitoring and control

Local authorities are closely monitoring the development of the epidemic:

• • Weekly follow-up confirmed cases.

  • Targeted interventions in the sources of contamination.

  • Localized insecticide treatments.

4. Raising public awareness

Communication campaigns are being deployed to inform residents:

• • Prevention messages on social media and television.

  • Educational brochures explaining the actions to take.

  • Encouragement of self-protection and vigilance.

5. Medical case management

Health structures have strengthened their systems for better care:

• • Rapid detection of cases to avoid complications.

  • Provision of specialized units in hospitals.

  • Monitoring of vulnerable populations (children, elderly people).

What repellents should I use?

1. Apipur Tahiti

Un 100% natural repellent based on combined essential oils, designed to protect against mosquitoes that carry dengue, Zika and chikungunya. It can be used in atmospheric spraying, on clothing or directly on the skin.

2. Anti-mosquito monoi

Le Monoï Tevi Tahiti and Monoï Tiki Tahiti are enriched in essential oils with repellent properties. They offer natural protection while moisturizing the skin.

3. Stop insects Nao Nao Tabu from Heiva

A spray based on Monoi and Tamanu oil, renowned for its soothing and protective properties against biting insects.

4. NaoNao Xtreme

A Polynesian brand specializing in natural mosquito repellents, developed after several years of research. It offers sprays and roll-ons effective against tiger mosquitoes.

It is important to know that in this article I only recommend natural and organic products. The RID for example is not cited here. If this product is one of the most effective, it contains Deet who can be dangerous for your health et for planète. It is even strongly discouraged French pregnant women and children !

Where to find them?

Ultimately

Clearly, dengue remains a major health issue in Tahiti. But thanks to the mobilization of the population et authorities, it is possible to limit the spread of the virus. The adoption of preventive actions and awareness are essential for reduce the risks et protect the population. As for you tourists wandering around Fenua, you should definitely not make a fixated on this disease. Most of the time, if you use the prevention methods presented in this article, the chances of catching it are very low. I myself did not contract it. only once in eleven years of presence here. That's to say... 😉