The Health Ministry is looking at re-opening the nursing station in Yalavou village in the highlands of Navosa.

Health minister Dr. Ifereimi Waqainabete says the nearest Health Centre from Yalavou is 25 km away and it’s difficult for villagers to seek medical attention during natural disasters.

Dr. Waqainabete says the village is in need of a health center that is closer to the villagers.

“Just making sure that we have access to health care on this side of the river. When the Sigatoka River is flooded, it’s safer that Fijians on this side of the rivers will be able to access it.”

Dr. Waqainabete says the accessibility of health care services, water and roads are crucial to every Fijian, living in and around Yalavou village.

He adds the challenges faced by villagers in accessing these services has resulted in their slow contribution to the economy.

The Health ministry is also working with the Waterways Ministry on the clearance of drains around the village to avoid the spread of diseases in the area.