Fiji
Risk / Health Info for Fiji
The health requirements for Fiji may seem complex, but our experts can advise you.
Your Canadian health insurance will not cover you when you leave Canada, so get travel insurance before you go. Consult your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.
There are limited good medical services and facilities in Fiji. Old medical clinics often lack basic drugs and equipment, and hygiene standards tend to be poor. There are two decompression chambers in Suva, but not all popular diving sites are nearby.
Take precautions against mosquito bites, as mosquito-borne diseases (especially Zika) are becoming more common throughout Fiji. Women who may be pregnant or might be considering getting pregnant should avoid travelling to Fiji.
- Dengue fever in Fiji
- There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Fiji. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.
- Chikungunya virus in Fiji
- Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Fiji. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.
- Zika in Fiji
- Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Fiji. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Fiji. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.
Recommended Vaccines for Fiji
| Vaccine Name | Course |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | 2 Doses |
| Hepatitis A and B combined (adult) | 3 Doses |
| Hepatitis A and B combined (paediatric) | 2 Doses |
| Hepatitis A and typhoid (combined) | 1 Dose |
| Hepatitis A (paediatric) | 1 Dose |
| Hepatitis B | 3 Doses |
| Hepatitis B (paediatric) | 3 Doses |
| Typhoid | 1 Dose |
| Typhoid (oral) | 1 Dose |
Book your Travel Vaccinations For Fiji
About Fiji
Fiji, an archipelago of 332 picture-perfect islands, has a tropical climate and sandy beaches, which make it a popular mid-price holiday destination.
top Tips for travelling to Fiji
The actor Raymond Burr (of Perry Mason fame) planted the Garden of the Sleeping Giant at Nadi, which features orchids and a lily pond. It is best to dress conservatively outside of tourist areas to avoid offending local sensitivities.