The Ministry of Health and Medical Services says Fiji continues to closely monitor the Hantavirus outbreak linked to the Hondius cruise ship currently anchored off Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands.
Through the Fiji Centre for Disease Control, the Ministry confirmed that eight cases and three deaths have been reported overseas to date.
However, authorities stressed that no cases have been recorded in Fiji and none of the affected passengers are from Fiji.
The Ministry said the current risk to Fiji remains very low.
Health officials also confirmed that strict health screening and inspection measures remain active at all international ports of entry, including health declarations, vessel inspections and disease surveillance protocols.
Hantavirus is a rare disease spread through exposure to infected rodents such as rats and mice.
The Ministry said symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headaches, nausea and difficulty breathing.
Members of the public are being advised to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms following possible exposure to rodents or rodent droppings.
Health authorities say they will continue monitoring international developments surrounding the outbreak while maintaining border health surveillance measures.
