The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has outlined the 38 hot spot areas in the Northern Division where leptospirosis, typhoid, dengue and diarrhoea (LTDD) are likely to emerge after Cyclone Yasa.

These areas have been identified because they have historical links to the waterborne diseases, said Acting Divisional Medical Officer Northern Dr Tiko Saumalua.

In Bua, there are eight areas:  

Vunivau Settlement, Naruwai Settlement, Nagadoa, Nawaca, Nabouwalu Government Station, Baravi Settlement, Nakorotiko Village and Daria Village.

In Macuata, there are 15 areas: 

These are Naleba, Coqeloa, Vuniika, Soasoa, Vunivau, Bulileka, Batinikama, Siberia, Nasekula, Tuatua, Lajonia, Waiqele, Wailevu, Tabucola and Tabia.

In Cakaudrove, there are 15 areas: 

These are Nabaci Village, Nakasa Village, Urata Village, Vunivesi Village, Buca Settlement, Daku Settlement, Korovesi Settlement, Naqere Settlement, Naidi Settlement, Nagigi Settlement, Naveria Settlement, Savarekareka Settlement, Wailailai Settlement and Nakobo Village.

Dr Saumalua said: “The health officials are zooming in closing in these areas and active evacuation centres because sometimes there is a surge post-cyclone.

“We haven’t received cases however, we advising people to be very careful.

“The teams have advised villages and settlements in hot spots areas on good hygiene practices.”

“We have been liaising with North Disaster Management Committee (DISMAC) on supply of water and sanitation for evacuation centres.”

In light of this, Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima has advised people to refrain from travelling to North.

“If people want to assist their family or friends in the North they can do so,” he said.

“But we urge you to be very careful as the environment right now is different and the risk of LTDD is high.

“Government officials, local donors and Non-Government Organisations have been advised on LTDD precautionary measures.”

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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