Doctors across New Zealand are being asked to watch closely for signs of dengue fever, especially in people returning from overseas. So far this year, there have been 208 reported cases nationwide, with Auckland alone recording 103 cases—double the total it saw in all of 2024.
Most of these infections came from people who caught dengue while traveling, especially in places like Samoa, which has been hit hard with over 2,000 cases and several deaths since an outbreak began in April. Dengue cannot be caught directly from another person—only through a bite from an infected mosquito.
Dr Sharon Sime from the National Public Health Service said many people with dengue don’t show symptoms, meaning the real number of cases might be even higher. About a third of those diagnosed in New Zealand this year have needed hospital care.
There’s no risk of catching dengue from mosquitoes in New Zealand right now because the local climate doesn’t support the type of mosquito that spreads it. However, officials are watching closely, especially at airports and seaports, in case the mosquitoes are brought in from other countries.
Symptoms of dengue include high fever, strong headaches, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, and a rash. Some people only get mild symptoms, but others—especially children under 10 and adults over 60—can become very sick and need hospital treatment.
To stay safe while traveling, doctors advise:
Sleeping under mosquito nets or in screened rooms
Keeping windows and doors closed
Wearing light-colored clothes that cover your skin
Using bug spray with DEET
Avoiding areas with lots of mosquitoes, like swamps or puddles
There is no vaccine for dengue in New Zealand, so travelers need to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
