There is an outbreak of leptospirosis on Kadavu, according to Minister for Health Dr Atonio Lalabalavu.
He said an outreach team was on the island to try and address the problem.
“We also have received an increase in cases of leptospirosis in Suva,” he said. In an interview, he said it was common for cases of leptospirosis to increase during periods of high rainfall.
“This disease spread due to dirt,” he said.
“You can be infected if you touch fresh water, soil, or other objects contaminated with infected animal urine.
“The most common ways to get infected is urine or contaminated water getting in your eyes, nose, mouth, or broken skin.”
He said everyone had a role to play in curbing the issue.
“You can start by ensuring the drains are clean and the yards too,” he said.
“There was flooding experienced in most parts of Fiji due to blockage caused by rubbish.”
He said anyone showing symptoms of the disease should present themselves to the hospital.
