Dengue outbreak in Fiji: update

Fiji authorities have advised tourists to take “standard health precautions” during their visit to the country due to the ongoing dengue outbreak. On Tuesday, April 15, Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka said that the Ministry of Health declared the outbreak in the Western Division in February, with additional hotspots in the Central, Northern, and Eastern Divisions. However, he added that key tourism areas such as Denarau Island and the Coral Coast are not affected by the health emergency. Gavoka also remarked that the Ministry of Health continues implementing its Dengue Action Plan, supported by divisional and sub-divisional outbreak response teams.
Tourism is the backbone of the Fijian economy, contributing 40% of its GDP (Gross Domestic Product). In 2024, the country was visited by one million persons, mostly coming from Australia and New Zealand. Gavoka pointed out that the United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains a Level 1 travel notice for Fiji, recommending routine precautions to travellers. Australia, New Zealand, and Canada have also issued the same recommendation. This indicates that Fiji is considered a relatively safe destination by these countries. Building on that, Gavoka said that Fiji authorities are ready to welcome many tourists and wish them an enjoyable holiday while continuing to prioritise their health and safety.