Health authorities in Fiji are urging the public to be vigilant as the country experiences a rise in seasonal flu cases. The Ministry of Health (MoH) has reported an increase in influenza-like illnesses (ILI) across all four divisions, aligning with the country's typical flu season during cooler and wetter months. Recent data from the Fiji Centre for Disease Control (CDC) indicates a steady increase in ILI and acute respiratory infection (ARI) reports over the past three weeks, according to the Early Warning Alert and Response Surveillance system.
Laboratory tests at the National Public Health Laboratory have confirmed that Influenza A (H3 subtype) is the dominant strain circulating in the community. While this seasonal increase is expected, the MoH notes that the trend mirrors similar early seasonal rises observed in other Western Pacific Region countries. As of now, there is no evidence of unusually severe illness or excessive hospitalizations beyond what is expected with the rise in cases.
The majority of reported cases are being managed as outpatients, but there are indications of a gradual increase in hospital admissions. This current influenza trend in Fiji aligns with global patterns, as the World Health Organization (WHO) has also reported Influenza A (H3N2) as the dominant subtype in the Western Pacific region.
In response to the rising flu cases, the MoH has taken several proactive measures. They have enhanced influenza surveillance and laboratory testing through the Fiji CDC and the National Public Health Laboratory to closely monitor the circulating strains. Additionally, all divisional and sub-divisional health teams have been alerted to monitor ARI and ILI trends and reinforce infection prevention measures in health facilities. Influenza awareness materials, developed in collaboration with the WHO, have been distributed to schools, workplaces, and health centers.
The Ministry has also activated the Risk Communication and Community Engagement network to promote early care-seeking and home-based prevention practices. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that the public is well-informed and prepared to manage the seasonal flu effectively. For those interested in streaming the best of Fiji, VITI+ offers a convenient platform to access content anytime, anywhere (https://www.viti.plus/).
