28 Nov 2019

Fiji measles outbreak: University postpones graduation

2:54 pm on 28 November 2019

The University of Fiji has postponed its graduation ceremony in Suva next month because of the measles outbreak in the country.

The University of Fiji.

The University of Fiji. Photo: University of Fiji

There are now 13 confirmed cases in Fiji.

The university said the delay followed a directive of the education ministry.

In a statement, vice chancellor Sushila Chang apologised for the inconvenience caused but said it was important the university acted responsibly to prevent the spread of the disease.

The ceremony will now be held in March 2020.

University of Fiji statement on the postponement of its 2019 graduation ceremony.

University of Fiji statement on the postponement of its 2019 graduation ceremony. Photo: Supplied

Meanwhile, Fijian taxi drivers say they are at risk of contracting the measles disease and are calling on health authorities to provide vaccination programmes for them.

Restrictions have been placed on the limited supply of the vaccine in the country.

The Health Ministry said it was prioritising the vaccine for those in affected areas, children aged between six months and three years, and those travelling overseas.

But the drivers from Lautoka told the Fiji Times there was growing concerns over the exposure to the virus because of the cabbies' interaction with the public on a daily basis.

Some drivers said they were turned away from health centres as priority was only given to hotel workers and those travelling overseas.