Fiji’s health authorities have confirmed a shortage of dengue testing kits at several health facilities even as the country’s dengue outbreak shows signs of slowing. Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu said the issue is being addressed, with procurement from both local and overseas suppliers expected to take up to three weeks.
The minister emphasized that while dengue cases are trending downward, the public should not become complacent. “There has been a drop in dengue cases, and we are aware that some facilities are out of dengue kits. We are in the process of procuring new dengue kits so they can be put out to facilities,” he said. He noted that the trend indicates dengue is slowing, but the aim is to avoid letting guard down and to continue restocking.
Procurement involves both local and international suppliers and is anticipated to take up to three weeks. The minister credited ongoing awareness campaigns and community clean-up efforts for helping curb the spread. In earlier reporting, the outbreak had resulted in eight fatalities and thousands of hospital admissions, underscoring the ongoing strain on health services even as case numbers fall.
Nationwide, from January 1 to June 15, 2025, Fiji recorded 10,969 dengue cases, with the Western Division bearing the heaviest burden at 4,860 cases, followed by the Central Division with 2,868, the Northern Division with 2,867, and the Eastern Division with 274. Active cases stood at 562 as of June 15, with 147 in the Western Division, 141 in the Central Division, 198 in the Northern Division, and five in the Eastern Division.
On access and costs, Lalabalavu said dengue kits are mainly used for confirmation, and prices at pharmacies typically range from 20 to 30. He added that while testing can be done in laboratories, whether to purchase a kit privately remains the individual’s choice. The current situation also highlights the importance of clinical management—patients with dengue-like symptoms can receive conservative treatment including hydration, rest, and over-the-counter pain relief as directed by healthcare providers.
Public health officials have reiterated that the drop in new cases does not mean the danger is over. The ministry continues to stress vector-control measures such as eliminating standing water and promoting community clean-up campaigns to prevent mosquito breeding. Testing and surveillance remain essential components of the response, with restocking of kits seen as a critical part of maintaining diagnostic capacity.
Context from ongoing reporting shows that while some districts have seen improved numbers, the dengue threat persists across Fiji and can surge again, especially during the rainy season. Authorities continue to encourage early care for dengue-like symptoms and to uphold community engagement in elimination of breeding sites and prompt medical attention.
Practical tips for households and workplaces:
– Eliminate standing water around homes and offices; regularly empty, clean, and cover water containers.
– Dispose of discarded tires, cans, and containers that can hold water.
– Use repellents and wear protective clothing when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity.
– Seek medical advice promptly if high fever, severe headaches, joint or muscle pain, or rashes develop; even if testing kits are not immediately available, clinicians can assess and manage cases based on symptoms.
Overall, the situation remains cautiously positive as cases decline and restocking proceeds, but sustained vigilance and ongoing community action are essential to keep the outbreak under control and prevent a resurgence. The ministry’s continued collaboration with health partners and local communities is expected to strengthen surveillance and response in the weeks ahead. If you’re seeking a quick takeaway, Fiji is currently moving in a more hopeful direction, with declining case numbers and renewed supply chains for diagnostic kits expected to support ongoing public health efforts.
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