Whether you’re heading to Fiji for a family holiday, honeymoon, or island-hopping adventure, it’s important to take your health seriously—especially as some tropical infections are on the rise.
Here’s what you need to know before you travel, from the doctors and nurses at Walker Street Doctors.
Vaccines for Travel to Fiji
We recommend the following vaccines for all durations of stay:
Routine Vaccines
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ADT Booster (Tetanus/Diphtheria): Especially if it’s been more than 10 years.
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Polio: Ensure you're vaccinated, particularly if you missed childhood doses.
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Influenza and Pneumococcal: Recommended for those over 65 or with chronic conditions.
Travel-Specific Vaccines
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Hepatitis A: A must-have for all travellers to Fiji.
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Hepatitis B: Consider for most travellers, especially if:
- There’s any chance of needing medical treatment
- You’re engaging in sexual contact
- You’re volunteering or working with locals
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Typhoid: Recommended due to potential exposure through food and water.
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Yellow Fever: Only required if you are arriving from a country with yellow fever risk (including airport transit >12 hours).
Mosquito-Borne Illnesses in Fiji
Fiji has several illnesses spread by mosquitoes. There are no vaccines for these, so prevention is key.
Dengue – High Alert (April 2025)
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Dengue fever cases are currently elevated in Fiji. Symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and fatigue.
- There is no vaccine. Avoid mosquito bites by:
- Using repellent (with DEET or picaridin)
- Wearing long, light-coloured clothing
- Sleeping in mosquito-proof accommodation
Zika Virus
- Zika can cause serious birth defects if contracted during pregnancy.
- Pregnant women should not travel to Fiji.
- Women trying to conceive and couples planning pregnancy should take mosquito precautions and use condoms or avoid sex for the recommended time after travel.
Chikungunya
- Causes fever, rash, and joint pain. Can linger for weeks.
- Spread by mosquitoes active both day and night.
Other insect-borne illnesses
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Filariasis, Ross River virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis can also occur in Fiji.
- Again, mosquito bite prevention is your best defence.
Leptospirosis: A Risk for Adventure Travellers
Outbreaks of leptospirosis have occurred in Fiji, especially in rural or flood-prone areas.
This infection is caused by bacteria in water or soil contaminated with animal urine.
Higher risk groups:
- People kayaking, swimming, or hiking in freshwater areas
- Agricultural and animal workers
- Humanitarian aid workers
To prevent leptospirosis:
- Avoid wading or swimming in rivers or lakes, especially near villages or farms
- Wear waterproof footwear
- Cover any cuts or scratches
- Never walk barefoot outdoors
Travel Tips for Staying Well
- Avoid mosquito bites—day and night
- Only drink bottled or boiled water
- Eat food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot
- Don’t swim in freshwater lakes or rivers (use chlorinated pools)
- Wear sandals or shoes outdoors to avoid cuts and infection
Book Your Travel Health Appointment Early
Walker Street Doctors provides:
- Personalised vaccine planning
- Travel health kits and repellents
- Malaria-free region advice
- Medication letters and documentation
- Pre-travel check-ups for peace of mind
Ideally, book your appointment 2–4 weeks before departure.
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