Dengue fever outbreak in Fiji: 3 dead, over 3600 cases

Fiji health authorities have confirmed three dengue fever deaths in the country. The deaths were reported in the Western and Northern Divisions. Fron January, over 3600 cases have been reported nationwide, with the Western Division as the worst affected area with 2077 laboratory-confirmed cases. The Central Division has instead reported 775 cases, and the Northern Division 748. The Eastern Division is the least affected area, with only 71 laboratory-confirmed cases. There have also been over 900 hospital admissions, mostly in the Western and Northern Divisions. More are expected due to the constant detection of new cases by health facilities.
Senior Divisional Health Inspector Josaia Tubuna said this year’s frequent rainy spells have created the conditions for the spread of the disease. He called on village chiefs, community health workers, and faith-based organizations to collaborate with the Ministry of Health in curbing the outbreak. He also added that they are ramping up efforts for awareness and cleanup campaigns.