The Fiji Red Cross Society is encouraging communities, especially in the Western Division, to act quickly to prevent the rise of climate-sensitive diseases following recent flooding in Fiji. As the waters start to recede, the organization highlights an urgent need for vigilance against diseases like Leptospirosis, Typhoid, Dengue Fever, and Diarrhoea (LTDD) that typically increase during this period.
Ragigia Dawai, the Director General of the Fiji Red Cross Society, emphasized the importance of taking protective measures. “While the immediate danger of flooding is subsiding, the risk of disease remains high,” she stated. Dawai urged families to implement simple but crucial safety practices to safeguard their health.
In the past three days, the Fiji Red Cross has assessed 75 households and provided assistance to over 295 individuals in evacuation centers and local communities. They have distributed essential supplies such as Hygiene and Dignity Kits, Jerry Cans, Mosquito Nets, Black Packs, and blankets to those affected by the floods.
The ongoing efforts in the Western Division also involve continuous monitoring of the situation to ensure support is available where it is most needed. Certain areas are identified as hotspots for LTDD, underscoring the necessity for residents to remain alert and proactive.
The Red Cross advises anyone experiencing symptoms like fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, or unusual fatigue to seek medical attention promptly, as early intervention can be life-saving.
Dawai expressed appreciation for the generosity of Frezco Beverages Ltd, which donated drinking water for impacted families, noting the critical nature of clean water during recovery efforts. She also acknowledged the collaboration with the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) and other partners, underlining the significance of teamwork in effectively addressing these challenges.
“Strong partnerships are essential in times like these, and we deeply value the support and teamwork that have made our efforts more impactful,” Dawai added. The organization is committed to minimizing the risk of disease outbreaks and assisting communities on their path to recovery.
This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of community resilience and collaboration in the face of environmental challenges, emphasizing that collective action can make a significant difference in recovery efforts.
Summary: Following recent flooding in Fiji, the Red Cross Society urges communities, particularly in the Western Division, to take precautions against climate-sensitive diseases like LTDD. With effective partnerships and ongoing support, they are working to distribute essential supplies and promote health vigilance, aiming to protect residents as they recover from the floods.
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