BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) through provincial health authorities, is planning to step up surveillance for potential disease outbreaks following Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Speaking to local media during a press conference over the weekend, Chairman of the National Disaster Operations Committee (NDOC) Health, Dr Nemia Bainivalu, said that after the initial emergency response by provincial health services with support from the national level, the ministry planned to step up surveillance of outbreak prone diseases.
“This includes waterborne diseases that may arise from contaminated water sources within affected communities. We will also be monitoring diurnal diseases.
“Additionally, we are on alert for mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue,” he said.
Dr Bainivalu urged communities to take preventive measures, including using mosquito nets, cleaning their surroundings, and removing stagnant water around homes.
He added that for communities already affected by diurnal illnesses, the ministry advises people to stay hydrated by drinking clean water or coconut water where available.
The MHMS will also work closely with provincial health services, particularly in affected areas, to monitor other potential outbreaks, including respiratory illnesses such as influenza and pneumonia.
Furthermore, Dr Bainivalu highlighted the importance of maintaining care for people living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes and hypertension.
“For this group, we encourage them to seek available health services to replenish their medications and continue with regular check-ups,” he said.
Dr Bainivalu said efforts are underway to restore health services across affected provinces.
“We are hopeful that as cyclone warnings ease, provincial health teams will be able to reach communities.
“Health services have been disrupted not only at clinics but also in support systems from provincial centres,” he said.
He also assured the public that the MHMS will soon issue nationwide health advisories to keep people informed about potential disease outbreaks following the cyclone.
Photo: Supplied
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