MHMS FIJI

Tag Village Health Committees

MINISTRY MONITORS SPREAD OF HANTAVIRUS

PUBLIC ADVISORY # 30 | 11 May 2026.

The Ministry of Health & Medical Services, continues to monitor the outbreak of Hantavirus on the Hondius cruise ship now anchored off Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands.

The Fiji Centre for Disease Control (FCDC) at the Ministry understands that eight (8) cases have been identified, with three (3) deaths and they will continue to monitor the situation.

No cases have been reported to date in Fiji, and none of the cruise ship passengers are from Fiji.

The risk to Fiji from this cruise ship outbreak is very low.

As part of standard protocols, in-line with international requirements, all ships at international ports of entry in Fiji are subject to strict health declaration and inspection requirements, before clearance for entry in order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

These include the production of Ship Sanitation Certificates (which include information on de-ratting) and Maritime Declaration of Health identifying sick passengers on board.

These standard protocols for ships at ports of entry include the boarding of vessels for inspection by Environmental Health Officers of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and escalation in line with contingency plans as needed.

The Ministry also has in place surveillance systems for the reporting of infectious diseases, and protocols at international ports of entry for the isolation and treatment of sick passengers, including through our Border Health Protection Unit in Nadi as needed.

Hantavirus is a rare and serious disease transmitted to humans through exposure to the urine, faeces and saliva of infected rodents like rats or mice.

It is not easily spread from human to human, however, the Andes strain causing the cruise ship outbreak has been shown to transmit amongst close contacts.

ENDS

MOSQUITO SPRAYING PROGRAM – SAVUSAVU RESIDENTS

PUBLIC ADVISORY # 27 | 28 April 2026.

The Ministry of Health & Medical Services wishes to inform all residents mentioned below that our Health Inspectors at the Savusavu Health Office will be conducting mosquito spraying from today – Tuesday 28/04/2026 until Thursday 30/04/2026.

DateTimeTarget Area
Tuesday 28.04.265pm – 7pmVuiyasawa Settlement, Provincial Office Compound, Savusavu Police Station
Wednesday 29.04.265am – 7amYaroi Village, Nasavusavu District School Compound
 5pm – 7pmNabauto Govt Quaters, Savusavu Hospital Compound, NFA Compound
Thursday 30.04.265am – 7am Naqere Area
 5pm – 7pmKetei, Savudrodro village, Savarekareka, WAF , RPA, St Bedes Dorm, St Andrews Primary School, St Bedes Secondary School Compound

Ketei, Savudrodro village, Savarekareka, WAF , RPA, St Bedes Dorm, St Andrews Primary School, St Bedes Secondary School Compound This initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to reduce mosquito population and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.

Important Information for Residents:

  • The insecticide in the fog is not harmful to human at the low concentration used and it has no odour.
  • Fogging operations are conducted in the early morning or late afternoon as this is the time when the outdoor dengue mosquito vector is most active.
  • Residents are advised not to be concerned about the fog and are also requested to leave their doors and windows open when the fogging machine is in their area, so that the fog can kill mosquitoes in the homes.
  • Residents are also advised to continue destroying dengue mosquitoes breeding places in their yard and to protect themselves and their family from mosquito bites.

 The Ministry looks forward to the co-operation of community members listed above in ensuring the success of this program. 

Together, we can create a healthier and safer environment.

For further information, please contact: Ministry of Health and Medical Services on 3306177 or Toll Free number 158.

ENDS

MINISTRY URGES GENERAL PUBLIC TO TAKE PRECAUTION AGAINST LEPTOSPIROSIS

PUBLIC ADVISORY # 17 | 22 February 2026.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is urging the general public to take immediate precautionary measures following a recent death and admissions with suspected severe leptospirosis last week.

This is after the Ministry admitted three (3) teenagers in healthcare facilities around Suva, suspected of having leptospirosis. One of the three teenagers died upon being admitted at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital on Friday and the Ministry sends its condolences to the family.
All three cases have a history of swimming at Colo-i-Suva early this month.
Meanwhile, the Central Health Services Divisional Outbreak Response Team are carrying out their public health interventions and investigations.

The Ministry stresses that although current leptospirosis case reports may be low, it is still a deadly disease and therefore the need for public awareness and prevention measures.
The recent death highlights the ongoing risk, especially after periods of heavy rain and with these weather conditions more cases are to be expected. Leptospirosis is preventable and treatable if detected early. The Ministry urges everyone to take precautions seriously and seek medical care immediately if unwell.

LABASA HOSPITAL UNDERGOES RENOVATION

PUBLIC ADVISORY # 13 | 12 February 2026.

Members of the public in the Northern Division are advised that the Labasa Hospital is currently undergoing renovation works. As a result, some health care services will be temporarily relocated.

Please note the following changes to services location, effective from today, and is expected to remain in place for the next five (5) months.

Relocation of Services:

  1. The Labor Ward has been temporarily relocated to the Diabetic Hub.
  2. The Diabetic Hub services have been relocated to HITH Hub (Old Outpatient Department)
  3. The HITH Hub has been relocated to the Chapel at the Post Basic Unit
  4. Gynecology/Female Surgical Ward services will be accommodated in the DLI Ward should there be a spill over.

The Ministry apologizes for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during this period.

END

PUBLIC WEATHER & HEALTH ADVISORY: PROLONGED HOT & HUMID CONDITIONS ACROSS FIJI

PUBLIC ADVISORY # 10 | 09 February 2026.

As hot, humid, and wet weather is forecasted for the Fiji Group over the next few months, this advisory provides essential information on current conditions and proactive measures to protect your health and safety.

The combination of high heat and humidity significantly increases the risk of heat-related illnesses and other health concerns.

People most at Risk where extra care should be taken

  1. Babies and young children.
  2. Pregnant women
  3. Elderly people
  4. People with heart, lung or chronic medical illnesses.
  5. People working or exercising outdoors like farmers, construction workers and school children.

Know the Signs: Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke

Immediate recognition and response are critical.

Heat Exhaustion (Act Immediately)

  1. Signs: Heavy sweating; weakness or dizziness; cold, pale, clammy skin; fast, weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps.
  2. Action: Move to a cool place. Loosen clothing. Sip water slowly. Use cool, wet cloths on the body. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.

Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency – Call for Help!)

  1. Signs: High body temperature (39.4°C /103°F or higher); hot, red, dry, or damp skin; rapid, strong pulse; confusion; unconsciousness.
  2. Action: Call emergency services on 911 immediately. Move the person to a cooler place. Use cool cloths or a cool bath to lower the temperature. Do not give them anything to drink.

How to protect yourself

  1. Drink water often: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and too much coffee/caffeine, which causes dehydration. During extreme heat exposure, drink about 1 litre of water every 2 hours.
  2. Avoid the midday Sun. Limit outdoor activity, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.).
  3. Keep Cool: Use fans or air conditioning. Take cool showers.
  4. Dress for the weather: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
  5. Never Leave Anyone in a Parked car: Car interiors can become lethal ovens within minutes.

Advice For Parents & Guardians

  1. Extra Vigilance: Check children regularly for signs of overheating, as they may not recognise the symptoms in themselves.
  2. Schedule: Plan outdoor play for early morning or late afternoon.
  3. Hydration Reminders: Encourage children to drink water regularly.

Sun & Insect Protection

  1. Use Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 35+) generously and reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days. Protect lips, ears, and feet.
  2. Prevent Bug Bites: Use insect repellent (containing DEET is recommended).
  3. Eliminate Breeding Sites: Regularly empty, clean, or cover containers that hold standing water around your home to disrupt mosquito breeding.

During Thunderstorms & Heavy Rain

  1. Seek proper shelter
  2. Do not walk or drive through floodwater
  3. Stay Informed: Follow official weather updates and advisories from the Fiji Meteorological Service.

Important Contacts

  1. Emergency Services: 911
  2. Fiji Meteorological Service: Follow for official forecasts and warnings.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed. By taking these proactive steps, we can all stay safe and healthy during this prolonged period of hot and humid weather.

This advisory is based on information from the Fiji Meteorological Service and global health authorities. Conditions may change; please follow the latest official updates.

ENDS.