Typhoid Fever in Fiji
12 Oct 2017
On 11 October 2017 Radio New Zealand
reported that the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services was closely monitoring reports of typhoid on Moturiki Island in the Lomaiviti Group. A total of 13 patients on Moturiki had been diagnosed with typhoid fever. Mass gatherings had been temporarily suspended in the hot spot areas as a preventative measure.
Advice to travellers
Typhoid is spread by the faecal oral route, precautionary measures should therefore be taken to avoid consumption of potentially contaminated drinks, drinking water and ice and to ensure food is uncontaminated or cooked thoroughly.
Personal hygiene when eating and drinking is also important including hand washing prior to eating and using clean plates, cups and utensils.
When to consider vaccination
Vaccination is recommended for travellers to high risk areas where food and water may be contaminated.
Travel to low risk areas - vaccination may be recommended only to those staying in conditions with poor sanitation and unable to maintain their own hygiene precautions e.g. hand hygiene and water purification.
For further information see Typhoid.