Health Minister Doctor Ifereimi Waqainabete says they have reason to believe that some of the people that have been sick from meningococcal have shared bowls during kava sessions or cups during drinking sessions with those that already have meningococcal.
Doctor Waqainabete says meningococcal is spread by saliva and six people have died from meningococcal this year.
He says this is why the Ministry of Health is strongly recommending that people use their own glass or bilo when they are drinking kava or alcohol.
Doctor Waqainabete says he knows that there is a strong traditional culture about kava drinking and who gets to have their own bowl but this does not take away the fact that the chiefs will remain chiefs.
He says this is about saving lives.
He says they are slowly beginning to work with bars and kava bars, beginning in the Western Division.
Doctor Waqainabete says they are advising the management of these kava bars and bars about the importance of maintaining hygiene practices.
He says they are currently talking about a “Bring your own bowl campaign”.
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