The Ministry of Health has confirmed an outbreak of Ciguatera Fish Poisoning (CFP) in Vanuatu, with 44 cases reported between early January and mid-February 2026.

From a press release it states that according to the Ministry’s National Surveillance Unit, cases initially declined in January but have steadily increased since the first week of February. For the past three weeks, the number of cases has exceeded the national alert threshold of five cases per week, with a peak of 12 cases recorded in the third week of February.

Health officials say the recent hot weather and heavy rainfall have contributed to the increase, as these conditions promote the growth of algae that produce ciguatoxins — the source of the illness.

No deaths have been reported. Three individuals required hospital admission but have since recovered and been discharged.

Cases have been recorded across six islands: Efate, Tanna, Ambae, Pentecost, Maewo and Santo. The majority of cases (61 percent) were reported on Efate. People of all ages have been affected, with the highest number of cases — 28 out of 44 — recorded among young adults aged 15 to 34 years. Men accounted for 57 percent of reported cases.

Most affected individuals reported consuming different types of reef fish.

Ciguatera is a foodborne illness caused by eating predatory reef fish that have accumulated natural toxins from algae in their diet. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, numbness, tingling, unsteady movement, and temperature reversal — a condition where cold objects feel burning hot on the skin. Symptoms can appear within 24 hours of eating contaminated fish.

The Ministry of Health is urging anyone experiencing symptoms to seek immediate medical attention at their nearest health facility.

To reduce the risk of infection, the public is advised to avoid eating large reef fish, particularly from areas considered high-risk. People are also encouraged to seek guidance from the Vanuatu Fisheries Department regarding fish species and fishing locations that may pose increased danger during this period.

The Surveillance Unit will continue to closely monitor the situation in Penama, Shefa, Tafea, Sanma and other provinces. The Ministry says updates will be provided as more information becomes available and is urging the public to remain cautious and follow official advisories.