The ongoing dengue fever outbreak in Fiji’s Western and Central divisions has been deemed to pose a minimal risk to tourists, according to Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka. Issuing a travel advisory, Gavoka reassured potential visitors that key tourist destinations such as Denarau Island and the Coral Coast are not classified as affected regions.
Tourists are urged to maintain standard health precautions throughout their stay. The Health Ministry has already activated a dengue action plan and deployed specialized response teams to handle reported cases effectively. Gavoka noted that dengue fever is common in tropical regions and part of Fiji’s public health narrative, which has successfully managed outbreaks through coordinated efforts in the past.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has assigned a Level 1 travel notice for Fiji, advising travelers to take routine precautions against mosquito bites. Additionally, travel advisories from Australia, New Zealand, and Canada echo similar guidance.
Gavoka highlighted that hotels across Fiji are implementing preventive measures such as mosquito spraying and fogging, further supported by the Health Ministry’s adult mosquito spraying in various hotspots, demonstrating a communal approach to controlling mosquito populations. The government is engaging local communities in eradicating mosquito breeding sites and emphasizes the importance of protective measures, including the use of mosquito repellent.
This collaborative effort between government bodies, health officials, and the tourism industry is aimed at ensuring both tourist safety and local public health, showcasing Fiji’s resilience as a safe destination. The proactive measures taken provide a hopeful outlook for effectively managing the situation, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their stay in Fiji while prioritizing health and safety.
Leave a comment