The Health Ministry has clarified that there is really no dengue alert in Fiji, but the health teams led by environmental health officers are in preparation mode, for the rainy season when most dengue outbreaks tend to occur.

Dr Eric Rafai from the Ministry said there is only one case with acute infection for dengue fever, much less compared to 1,000 in September 2008 and 250 cases in September 2009.

Dr Rafai said that generally it is the West or areas under drought conditions that are hit with dengue, where residents keep containers of water that is major breeding sites for dengue carrying mosquitoes.

Dengue fever can only be transmitted by certain species of mosquitoes, commonly the domestic type.

The population should be encouraged to seek medical care if they have a fever that lasts more than 2 days.

Hand washing with soap is the most effective preventive measure and people should wash their hands with soap after each toilet visit and before preparing a meal or drink and before eating.

Drinking water supplies should be protected and ensure safe for human consumption and water from rivers or creeks should not be drunk.

When preparing grog, use safe water and wash hands with soap before handling it.  

Areas where Yaqona and other crops are harvested should be protected from contamination by human waste.

 
Story By: Selina Navuso