By Anish Chand
British nationals in Fiji or intending to visit Fiji have been warned of a leptospirosis outbreak in Fiji.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has issued a travel advisory last night alerting their citizens of the outbreak.
“The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has declared an outbreak of leptospirosis in the Central Division,” reads the advisory.
“Please exercise caution should you be travelling to the Central Division and visit the nearest hospital or healthcare facility if suffering from the symptoms of leptospirosis,” adds the FCO advisory.
Fiji’s Ministry of Health has confirmed 4 deaths in the Central Division which includes the capital Suva, from the outbreak.
69 cases of leptospirosis were recorded from January 1st this year, with 18 people requiring admission to the CWM Hospital.
Most cases have been in the 1-19 and 20-29 age groups.
Humans get leptospirosis through contact with the urine of infected animals.
The Health Ministry says recent heavy rains and flooding are likely to have contributed to the increase in cases in the Central Division.
