Issued: 17/10/2018
ZIKA VIRUS IS NOT A THREAT IN FIJI
In response to misleading media reports, the Health Ministry would like to clarify that the Zika virus disease is currently not a public health threat in Fiji. The Ministry conducts regular surveillance, which includes laboratory testing, for Zika virus disease in Fiji with confirmatory testing done in the country at the National Public Health Laboratory. In 2017, there was one confirmed case detected. However, there has never been a reported case of Zika virus disease related complications in pregnancy (e.g. microcephaly) in Fiji. The Ministry continues to be vigilant in our surveillance for Zika virus and other mosquito-borne diseases. We continue to encourage all Fijians and visitors to protect themselves from mosquito bites, which includes using DEET containing mosquito repellant.
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