To safeguard people from the surge in climate-sensitive diseases like leptospirosis, typhoid, dengue fever, and diarrhoea, which commonly spike during times of flooding, the Fiji Red Cross Society is urging communities in flood-prone areas to take precautions.
As floodwaters begin to recede across Fiji, the Red Cross says if people are experiencing symptoms of any of these diseases, such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, or unusual fatigue, they urge them to seek medical attention immediately as early treatment can save lives.
Fiji Red Cross Society Director General Ragigia Dawai says while the immediate danger of flooding is subsiding, the risk of disease remains high.
Dawai says they are calling on everyone to take simple but vital steps to protect themselves and their families.
She says over the last three days since their response began, they have assessed 75 households and assisted more than 295 people in need in the Western Division both in evacuation centres and communities.
The Fiji Red Cross Society has distributed Hygiene and Dignity Kits, Jerry Cans, Mosquito nets, Black Packs, and blankets to the affected communities.
