The Lautoka Residents and Ratepayers Association has called on the Health Ministry to declare red zone areas for leptospirosis and dengue fever.
Association president Narayan Reddy says the current updates are too general and do not provide a clear indication of high-risk areas.
“With leptospirosis and dengue fever, the ministry should list down red zone areas so people would know where exactly to be alert,” Mr Reddy said.
“With COVID-19 restrictions being lifted, people are moving around freely and if they (MOH) list the red zones, people will be able to know where they are going.
“They need to specify which areas so people are aware and the same applies for dengue fever. We need to know the breakdown of figures in towns and cities and what can be done.”
However, Health Ministry permanent secretary Dr James Fong says the floods have affected all areas of the Western Division.
“We are looking at geographical areas of concern for the purpose of source reduction programs to reduce rat and mosquito populations, facilitate clean-up campaigns and improve drainage of flood areas,” he said.
“To mitigate individual risk, it is important to understand that the risk to humans is mediated by greater occupational and recreational exposure to animals, soil, mud, and water.”
