There is a renewed warning to the public in the Pacific to try to fend off mosquito-borne infections as the zika virus has spread from French Polynesia to New Caledonia.
The Secretariat of the Pacific Community says zika is new to the region and is transmitted by mosquitoes that also spread dengue and chikungunya.
Dr Yvan Souares of the SPC's Public Health Division says zika has spread from French Polynesia to Japan.
He says the people should be vigilant.
"Everyone should wear long sleeves and long trousers preferably and put some repellent on the open skin. Make sure they have mosquito coils outside their premises."
Dr Yvan Souares of the SPC
