In response to an alarming surge in Dengue fever cases reported by the Ministry of Health, the Education Minister, Aseri Radrodro, has called upon students, teachers, and the general public in the Western Division to adopt essential safety measures. The Minister emphasized the need for vigilance and proactive actions to combat the mosquito-borne virus which thrives in standing water.
As outlined by the Ministry of Health, Dengue fever is transmitted via infected mosquitoes, particularly during the rainy season, which runs from October to April in Fiji. Radrodro highlighted the importance of eliminating potential breeding sites such as discarded tyres, uncovered water containers, and flower vases, which harbor stagnant water that can breed mosquitoes.
Fever and flu-like symptoms characterize Dengue, which typically lasts for 2 to 7 days. Symptoms include a high fever, nausea, vomiting, severe headaches, muscle and joint pains, and rashes. He strongly urged anyone presenting these symptoms to seek medical assistance promptly to mitigate severe complications and help contain the virus’s spread within school environments.
In coordination with the Ministry of Health, schools are urged to ensure their environments remain free of stagnant water. Regular maintenance of school grounds and efficient reporting of suspected Dengue cases are key components of Radrodro’s advisory to District Education Officers and Heads of Schools. The Minister expressed an understanding of the anxiety Dengue fever can elicit among students and staff, advocating for schools to provide counseling to affected individuals.
Similar articles reporting on the epidemic outline that the Ministry has been mobilizing outbreak response teams, promoting proactive health interventions, including house-to-house surveillance and community clean-up campaigns to remove imminent breeding sites. As of February 23, 2025, the Western Division alone recorded 1,411 dengue cases out of a total of 2,436 cases reported nationwide, highlighting a pressing public health challenge that has already led to fatalities.
Community involvement is crucial in this endeavor. Efforts by health officials, combined with public education and engagement initiatives, present a hopeful avenue for effectively controlling Dengue’s spread. The public is encouraged to remain informed, actively participate in health initiatives, and maintain cleanliness in their environments to safeguard community health during this challenging time.
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