Vanuatu Reports Flu Outbreak on Efate Island

Synopsis

On January 18, Vanuatu's Ministry of Health announced a flu outbreak on Efate Island, driven by a surge in cases in Port Vila. The ministry confirmed 360 cases and urged the public to follow hygiene practices. The situation follows a devastating earthquake affecting businesses and buildings in the capital.

Key Takeaways

Flu outbreak declared in Vanuatu on Efate Island.
360 confirmed cases reported by health authorities.
Public is advised to maintain good hygiene.
Special caution for vulnerable populations.
Impact of recent earthquake affecting businesses.

Suva, Jan 18 (NationPress) The Ministry of Health in Vanuatu has officially announced a flu outbreak on Efate, the country’s most populated island, following a notable rise in cases at a hospital located in the capital city of Port Vila.

As per the ministry’s latest surveillance, there have been 360 confirmed cases of flu, categorizing this situation as an outbreak on Efate Island, as reported by the Daily Post on Saturday.

The health authorities are urging the public to adhere to proper hygiene practices, which include washing hands frequently, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, and wearing a mask when in public settings.

Individuals are also encouraged to minimize their presence in crowded areas and to take special care of the elderly, children, and those with disabilities.

Awareness of symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches is vital. Those experiencing these symptoms are advised to seek prompt medical attention at their nearest health facility, according to Xinhua news agency.

Earlier this week, local news outlets reported that over 200 businesses are currently under lockdown in this South Pacific nation following a strong 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck on December 17, 2024.

This situation includes more than 90 buildings and over 200 businesses within the Central Business District (CBD) of Port Vila.

Once the most bustling area on Efate Island, the CBD now looks deserted, with only security personnel and police officers present to protect the remaining structures from theft and manage traffic.

Some essential services, such as banks and cash transfer companies, have relocated while retaining their workforce, and other businesses outside the CBD have employed some displaced workers.

However, a significant number of individuals remain without jobs.

The CBD remains closed, as many buildings affected by the earthquake are still deemed unsafe and classified as risk zones, according to reports.

While preliminary visual assessments have been carried out, further evaluations are still required, as reported by Xinhua.

The Recovery Operations Centre has confirmed that work approved for implementation will be conducted by engineers from New Zealand, Australia, and Japan.