Health Ministry warns of health risks amid prolonged hot, humid weather

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has issued a public health advisory warning of increased health risks as hot, humid and wet weather conditions are expected to persist across Fiji over the coming months.

In a statement, the Ministry said the combination of high temperatures and humidity significantly increases the risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Those most at risk include babies and young children, pregnant women, elderly people, individuals with heart, lung or chronic medical conditions, and people working or exercising outdoors such as farmers, construction workers and school children.

The Ministry urged the public to be alert to signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness or dizziness, cold or clammy skin, a fast but weak pulse, nausea, vomiting and muscle cramps. The Ministry advised people experiencing these symptoms to move to a cool place, loosen clothing, sip water slowly and apply cool, wet cloths. Medical attention should be sought if symptoms worsen or last longer than an hour.

Heat stroke was described as a medical emergency. Warning signs include a body temperature of 39.4 degrees Celsius or higher, hot red skin that may be dry or damp, a rapid and strong pulse, confusion or unconsciousness. In such cases, the Ministry advised calling emergency services on 911 immediately, moving the person to a cooler place and using cool cloths or a cool bath to reduce body temperature. Fluids should not be given.

To protect against heat-related illness, the Ministry encouraged the public to drink water frequently, even when not thirsty, and to avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine. During extreme heat exposure, about one litre of water every two hours is recommended.

People were also advised to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours between 10am and 4pm, keep cool using fans or air conditioning, take cool showers, and wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-coloured clothing, along with hats and sunglasses.

The Ministry strongly warned against leaving anyone in a parked vehicle, noting that car interiors can become dangerously hot within minutes.

Parents and guardians were urged to closely monitor children for signs of overheating, schedule outdoor play for early morning or late afternoon, and encourage regular hydration.

The advisory also highlighted the importance of sun and insect protection. The Ministry recommended using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 35 or higher, reapplying every two hours, and using insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites. Residents were urged to eliminate standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding.

During thunderstorms and heavy rain, the public was advised to seek proper shelter, avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, and follow official updates from the Fiji Meteorological Service.

The Ministry said the advisory is based on information from the Fiji Meteorological Service and global health authorities, and reminded the public that conditions may change.

Emergency services can be contacted on 911.