Travel advisory for NZ after outbreak of strain meningococcal disease

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services is advising Fijians to take extra precautions when travelling to New Zealand following the confirmation from health authorities in New Zealand and the World Health Organisation of an outbreak of serogroup W meningococcal disease.

This particular strain of MenW affects all age groups and is associated with a high number of fatalities.

A government statement says Northland has reported the most cases during this outbreak in 2018 therefore Fijians should be especially mindful when planning visits to this area.

It says this is a deadly disease and if a person has the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease, they should seek urgent medical treatment.

Common symptoms of the disease include nausea, eyes are sensitive to light, Rash – red/purple spots in the skin.