Localised outbreaks of typhoid in Ra, Lautoka and Nadi with 3 deaths in Togovere Village in Ra

There are localised outbreaks of typhoid in communities in Ra, Lautoka, and Nadi with 73 cases confirmed by the Health Ministry this year.

The Health Ministry says there were seven confirmed cases last week alone and there have been 5 deaths from typhoid fever this year.

Togovere Village in Ra has been designated an area of public health concern and a restriction of movement has been implemented in and out of the village until next Tuesday.

The Health Ministry says case numbers have increased from 5 to 8 cases in Togovere Village.

They have reported 3 deaths from Togovere and now have one further case in critical condition in Lautoka Hospital Intensive Care Unit.

Signs and symptoms of typhoid include fever, headache, a rash that appears as red bumpy spots, abdominal pain, nausea and constipation or sometimes diarrhoea.

The Health Ministry says typhoid is more common where access to clean water and sanitation is poor.

It stresses the unhygienic preparation of food by a person who has typhoid can also lead to the spread of this disease to others.

People who travel and live in places where there are typhoid cases can get infected and spread it to other areas.

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.