The prevalence of communicable diseases is being attributed to climate change.

Health Minister Dr. Iferemi Waqainabete says more Fijians are now at risk of contracting a communicable disease as a result of climate change.

These diseases include Dengue Fever, Typhoid and Leptospirosis to name a few.

“It’s important for us to understand that the time we live, that with climate change, with the weather patterns not being what they are, that you know communicable diseases is a risk. Our public health officials are working very hard out there in the community. As I said earlier meningococcal epidemic last year, the majority of the deaths were in young people. There were six deaths, 85 people were involved. ”

Meanwhile, three people have died this year from the meningococcal disease, two adults and a four-year-old child.

The Minister is advising all Fijians who may be sick with symptoms such as a sudden fever, vomiting and rash red and or purple spots on the skin to get urgent medical attention.