Ministry of Health has officially declared a dengue outbreak on Tanna Island, Tafea Province, after seven cases were confirmed between 29 September and 1 October 2026.

The first case had travelled from Efate to Tanna, while the other six cases were identified on Tanna, indicating that dengue is now spreading within the Tanna community.

The cases have been reported in the West Tanna and Southeast Area Councils.

The Ministry of Health is carrying out surveillance, case finding and mosquito control activities to prevent the further spread of dengue.

The Ministry is urging communities to remove places where mosquitoes can lay eggs, including standing water in buckets, used tyres and drums, and to cover containers that hold clean water.

People who develop fever, headache, body or joint pain, or a skin rash are being advised to seek medical attention at a clinic as soon as possible.

The Ministry is also advising people to use mosquito repellent, wear clothing that covers the body, and sleep under mosquito nets to reduce the risk of dengue infection.