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Port Vila, Vanuatu – Vanuatu’s Ministry of Health has declared a flu outbreak on Efate, the nation’s most populous island, following a surge in cases reported at the capital’s main hospital in Port Vila.
According to the ministry, 360 confirmed flu cases were identified in recent surveillance, officially marking the outbreak. The Daily Post reported on Saturday that health officials are urging residents to take preventative measures to curb the spread of the virus. These include frequent handwashing, wearing masks in public places, and covering mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.
Special attention has been directed toward protecting vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Residents experiencing symptoms like fever, sore throat, cough, and body aches are advised to seek medical care immediately.
This health crisis comes as Vanuatu continues to grapple with the aftermath of a 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck on December 17, 2024. The quake forced over 200 businesses and 90 buildings in Port Vila’s Central Business District (CBD) into lockdown due to structural safety concerns.
Once a bustling hub, the CBD now lies largely deserted, with only security personnel and police officers present to secure the area and manage traffic. Essential businesses, including banks and cash transfer services, have relocated to ensure continuity, but the economic fallout has left hundreds unemployed.
The Recovery Operations Centre has greenlit structural assessments and recovery efforts led by engineers from New Zealand, Australia, and Japan. While initial evaluations have been conducted, further inspections are needed to determine when the CBD can reopen.
Amid these dual crises, authorities are striving to balance public health needs and disaster recovery efforts. The health ministry continues to stress the importance of vigilance and hygiene practices as the flu outbreak coincides with ongoing challenges from the earthquake’s impact.
Residents and officials alike face an uphill battle as they work toward rebuilding infrastructure while containing the flu outbreak on Efate Island.
