Fiji, Samoa report increase in influenza-like illness

The two South Pacific island nations of Fiji and Samoa have both reported an increase in influenza-like illness.

According to Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) on Thursday, Fiji's Ministry of Health has confirmed an increase in people with influenza-like illness at the health centers and hospitals and COVID-19 case numbers have also continued to show an upward trend.

The symptoms include cough, sore throat, muscle/body aches, headache, fatigue, runny nose, sneezing, vomiting and diarrhea. The ministry said that while most people will develop these symptoms and recover in about seven to 10 days, some will develop more serious illnesses that will require hospitalization.

While urging Fijians to take precautions, including minimizing movement and wearing face coverings, to avoid becoming infected and to stop the spread of the illness at this time, the ministry said that anyone with a fever or is feeling unwell should stay home from work in order to help stop the spread of illness at their workplaces.

Meanwhile, Samoa's Ministry of Health has also reported an increase in influenza-like illness.