Disease

Dengue Fever - Central America

Central American countries in 2019 have seen an increased incidence of dengue fever, in fact, the cumulative incidence rate of dengue in the Central America region is higher than in the previous five previous years, with an incidence of more than 100 people with dengue per 100,000 people,

Flu, Pneumonia - Global

Despite large declines since 1990 in child deaths from pneumonia and the flu, these and other lower respiratory infections (LRIs) remain a leading killer of children under age 5. A new scientific study finds LRIs responsible for one in seven child deaths globally.

White-nose Syndrome - Bats

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is announcing a $100,000 challenge to combat white-nose syndrome (WNS), a lethal fungus that has killed millions of bats in North America and pushed some native bat species to the brink of extinction. Funding will be awarded to individuals who identify innovative ways to permanently eradicate, weaken or disarm the disease.

Measles - Samoa and Tonga

In a follow-up on the measles outbreak in Samoa, health authorities say there have been 15 confirmed cases, including three deaths. In addition, 314 suspected cases – most of them children under the age of four are being investigated. Meanwhile in Tonga, an outbreak of measles has occurred following the return of a squad of Tongan rugby players from New Zealand where one player developed measles. Twelve other players were in the incubation period of the illness during travel back to Tonga and developed symptoms on 6th- 9th October.