Health Ministry advises people to avoid mass gatherings and prevent the further spread of typhoid

People in Macuata and Bua in the Northern Division have been advised to avoid mass gatherings following the outbreaks of typhoid fever.

The Ministry of Health says there is an outbreak of typhoid fever in 2 locations in Macuata and Bua.

They say there have been 6 cases over the last 3 weeks in Nasuva Village, Seaqaqa, with 3 just this week.

There have been no hospital admissions or deaths reported.

The Ministry says in Waikonadawa Settlement in Nasolo, Bua, there have been 5 cases in the last 3 weeks, with one case reported last week, and zero cases reported so far this week.

There have been 3 admissions and no deaths reported from Nasolo.

The Ministry says the Northern Divisional Team are leading a whole of government approach, forming a taskforceto respond to these outbreaks, conducting necessary interventions such as door-to-door screening and awareness campaigns in the at-risk communities.

Typhoid is an illness that is very contagious and easily spreads from person to person.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before you prepare and eat food and especially after using the toilet.

You should ensure meals are thoroughly cooked and eaten while still warm.

For leftover food, reheat food well before eating, avoid eating under-cooked meat and wash fruits and vegetables well before consumption or cooking.

It is equally important to ensure that toilets are well-built, clean, and properly maintained.

Some symptoms of typhoid include high temperature, headache, general aches and pains, and constipation.