Category Press Release

Adolescent Health 

February marks Family Health Month on the Ministry of Health & Medical Services Calendar!

If keeping your family healthy is important to you, take a look at the 5 Family Health services the Ministry offers. There’s something for every family, from parents to babies to teens.

This week we will look at: Adolescent Health

Growing up can be hard, but growing up is normal. With an increasing number of youth friendly services, adolescent health targets the issues of youth today from puberty and development, to mental and reproductive health. The resources youth need are right around the corner at hub locations in Lautoka, Labasa, and Suva and also on the Adolescent Health facebook page.

Stay tuned for tips on how to maximize the total well being of yourself and your family. Your family’s health is your family’s wealth.

World Cancer Day: Cancer Screening is important

The Ministry of Health & Medical Services encourages the public to get screened for cancer, as it can be treatable and preventable if detected early.

This message was reiterated on February 4^th as it marks World Cancer Day with the theme, “We can. I can. Prevent Cancer”.

The Hon. Minister for Health & Medical Services Mr Jone Usamate said that people must understand that cancer can be treated if detected early, and this can only happen through cancer screenings.

“Health screenings must be a priority for every individual. It is important that you do not wait to fall sick to get screened, be it for your overall health or cancer screening. Even if you feel well it is important to get screened regularly. Some cancers do not show signs or symptoms,” Mr Usamate said.

Women between the ages of 30-50 are encouraged to get screened for cervical cancer every 3 years. Women of any age should do breast self-examinations regularly and if any abnormalities are found, visit a doctor. These screenings are offered at the divisional hospitals and health facilities, which can be contacted for more information. Men above the age of 40 years old are also encouraged to get screened for prostate cancer

February marks Family Health Month on the Ministry of Health & Medical Services Calendar.

Do you think about keeping your family healthy? The Ministry provides 5 services to help keep your loved ones well!

This week we will look at service #1: Child Health

During pregnancy, prepare well with early bookings in the first three months of pregnancy. Ok, baby is here! As your child grows, you can help them thrive with checkups, immunizations, and a proper diet. Your health care worker can provide the best possible services, as all of Fiji’s child health clinics are certified as baby friendly, and can answer any questions you may have.

Stay tuned for tips on how to maximize the total well being of yourself and your family. Your family’s health is your family’s wealth.

Zika virus

(Source: CDC Center for Disease Control and Prevention)

What is Zika virus disease (Zika)?

Zika is a disease caused by Zika virus that is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week.

What are the symptoms of Zika?

About 1 in 5 people infected with Zika will get sick. For people who get sick, the illness is usually mild. For this reason, many people might not realize they have been infected.

The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eyes). Symptoms typically begin 2 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

How is Zika transmitted?

Zika is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, the same mosquitoes that spread Chikungunya and dengue. These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters and they can also bite at night. Mosquitoes become infected when they bite a person already infected with the virus. Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to other people through bites. It can also be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her baby during pregnancy or around the time of birth.

Who is at risk of being infected?

Anyone who is living in or traveling to an area where Zika virus is found who has not already been infected with Zika virus is at risk for infection, including pregnant women.

What can people do to prevent becoming infected with Zika?

There is no vaccine to prevent Zika. The best way to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes is to avoid being bitten. Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites.