The Fiji Red Cross Society is focusing on conducting important meetings, and training that will set the groundwork for field visits and awareness to communities and schools after being declared by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services on the 29th of April that there are dengue fever outbreaks in Ovalau and the Western Division where case numbers exceeded expected levels for this time of year.
They say in Ovalau, 72 cases were reported since the 1st of January, with a recent surge observed towards the end of April, predominantly affecting the 10-19 age group.
The awareness programs and training were carried out by their dedicated volunteers from the Levuka Branch led by their Divisional Manager Central Eastern Sagaitu Josaia and the President of the Red Cross in Levuka Paulo Talavutu.
In the training, the communities in Ovalau were enlightened on how Dengue can become and how communities can safeguard themselves.
The team also met stakeholders like the Provincial Administrator in Lomaiviti, Ravuama Nagatalevu and Senior Health Inspector Lomaiviti Ratu Viliame Gonewai and later presented their i-sevusevu to the Turaga Na Tui Levuka Ratu Seru Etonia Rokotuinaceva.
The Roko Tui Levuka gave his blessing and support to the team and the work the Red Cross is doing with the communities in the old capital and says Dengue Fever can be fatal.
He says it is important to take the necessary precautions.
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