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http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?ref=archive&id=141115

 

Red Cross moots change 

Monday, March 01, 2010 

PEOPLE need to take precautions against typhoid because it is fast becoming a 
serious health problem, Fiji Red Cross health and care co-ordinator Marica Kepa. 

Last week the Red Cross visited risk areas identified by the Health Ministry. 

"The main problem here is the attitude, which is 'it is not serious until someone dies'. 
Some people in the areas we have visited are aware of the disease but majority do not 
seem to take it seriously, and some simply do not care. 

"Some have the attitude that they don't have the disease then they need not worry," 
she said. 

Ms Kepa said there was a need to raise more awareness to stop the spread of typhoid 
and to inform people of the precautions they can take, especially in areas that do not 
have proper water supply. 

"Preparedness is one of the weak points identified in our communities so the need is 
there to assist the Ministry of Health and they cannot do this alone," she said. 

"Typhoid is a serious public health problem so a more aggressive approach of 
preventative measures should be taken to support the Health Ministry and that 
includes the media." 

Ms Kepa said people should boil all drinking water and wash their hands with soap 
and water after using the toilet.