Fiji is a true island paradise, famous for its gorgeous lagoons, pristine beaches, and rugged landscape that offers hikers and mountain climbers exciting activities under the sun. From divers to nature lovers, and those who simply want to get away from it all for a while, people from around the world travel to Fiji throughout the year.
Before you head off to paradise, though, you should get a few vaccinations to protect yourself from infectious diseases while you’re in Fiji.
Courtesy of warwickhotels.com
Hepatitis A
A single dose vaccination for Hepatitis A is necessary if you’re going to be heading off to Fiji. This liver infection is very contagious and is spread by close contact with an infected individual, as well as by ingesting contaminated water or food.
Although mild cases of infection with the Hepatitis A virus don’t require treatment, and the majority of people who become infected are able to recover without any permanent damage to the liver, protecting yourself is important because infection can affect the liver’s ability to function properly, as well as cause inflammation.
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio
A single dose vaccination will protect you against the three diseases of Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio.
You can catch Diphtheria from an infected person who sneezes or coughs on you, and in severe cases, this disease can lead to death because it can cause heart or respiratory failure, as well as nervous system toxicity.
Tetanus is usually transmitted via a puncture wound. This bacterial infection results in severe spasms of the muscles, and it is also often fatal.
Polio is a serious infection that could result in death as well. It could lead to the paralysis of your limbs, paralysis of respiratory muscles, and permanent nerve damage. Though most parts of the world no longer deal with polio, others do, and if you’re headed to Fiji, you need a vaccination against this infection.
Hepatitis B
Like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver, but this virus can lead to chronic illness. It is transferred from person to person via bodily fluids, including blood and semen. And while some people will only experience the infection as a short-term, acute illness, others will experience a chronic, long-term infection that could result in serious health problems like liver cancer and cirrhosis.
Typhoid
Typhoid Fever is caused by bacteria that’s spread via contaminated water and food. It can lead to toxic heart disease, seizures, pneumonia, brain swelling, and intestinal bleeding. Because this disease is serious and potentially fatal, you should vaccinate yourself for protection.
Rabies
Rabies is a fatal infection that can be spread from an animal to a person if the animal bites you. When traveling to areas like Fiji where animals may be infected, it’s best to get vaccinated before you go.
Now that you know what vaccinations you need, all you have to do is make an appointment with your GP or head to a place like the London Travel Clinic and simply let them know that you need vaccinations for holidays in Fiji before your departure.
