By Staff Writer
The Ministry of Health has issued a public health advisory warning Samoans about potential health risks linked to El Niño conditions expected to affect the country in the coming months.
The advisory follows the Samoa Meteorological Office’s declaration of El Niño conditions for Samoa on July 9, 2026.
The Ministry said El Niño could bring hotter and drier weather, changing rainfall patterns and other conditions that may affect water supplies, food production, the environment and public health.
Potential impacts include drought and water shortages, higher daytime temperatures, reduced agricultural production and food supplies, possible electricity shortages caused by lower hydropower generation, pressure on marine ecosystems and food sources, and an increased risk of bush and forest fires.
The Ministry also warned of periods of heavy rainfall and a possible increase in tropical cyclone activity.
The advisory identifies three key health concerns that may worsen during El Niño conditions: mosquito-borne diseases, water- and food-borne illnesses, and heat-related illness.
Hot and dry weather may prompt households to store water. However, uncovered containers can become mosquito breeding sites and increase the risk of diseases such as dengue.
The warning comes as Samoa continues its response to a dengue outbreak.
The Ministry is urging households to remove potential mosquito breeding sites by emptying, covering or cleaning containers around their homes where water can collect.
People are also advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using mosquito nets, wearing clothing that covers their arms and legs, and applying mosquito repellent, particularly around dawn and dusk.
Heavy rainfall and tropical cyclones can contaminate drinking water and food, increasing the risk of diarrhoea, acute gastroenteritis and other illnesses.
The Ministry advises people to protect drinking water during periods of heavy rain and cyclones and not to consume water suspected of being contaminated until it has been treated or otherwise made safe.
Higher temperatures pose another health risk.
The Ministry said hot weather could increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses, particularly among young children, older people, and those working or exercising outdoors.
People are advised to drink plenty of safe water, increase their fluid intake during hot weather or physical activity, and take steps to keep children cool and hydrated.
The Ministry also advises people to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and warns that young children should never be left in hot or enclosed spaces.
As part of its advisory, the Ministry is encouraging households to prepare emergency supplies, including essential food, drinking water, medicines, batteries, torches and other necessities.
Families are also urged to review their emergency plans and follow official advice and evacuation instructions during cyclones, flooding, fires or other emergencies.
The Ministry is encouraging the public to stay informed through updates from the Samoa Meteorological Service, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the National Emergency Operation Centre.
It said the recommended preventive measures should be followed in all settings, including schools, workplaces, outdoor activities and community gatherings.
“With Samoa continuing its response to the current dengue outbreak, it is important that we also recognise and address the potential public health risks associated with El Niño conditions,” the Ministry said in the advisory.
The Ministry said early and practical preventive measures would help protect individuals, families and communities from the potential health impacts of changing weather conditions.
It will continue to monitor weather-related health risks and diseases of public health concern and provide further public health advice as necessary.