Most tourist destinations in the South Pacific are free of malaria. The exceptions are Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. In Vanuatu, only Efate, the main island, is malaria-free. Otherwise, there are no dangerous animals at all. Mosquitoes are a nuisance and you can buy mosquito repellent everywhere in the South Pacific.
Travellers from colder climates will have to adjust to the high humidity, the penetrating sun and the unusual food. It’s recommended you take your time getting used to it and don’t over-exert yourself until your body has adjusted to the climate.
Pharmacies in Fiji and Tahiti are well stocked, but less so on the smaller islands. In your first aid kit you should carry
- Plasters and disinfectant for grazes from corals which don’t heal easily without disinfectant
- Something for diarrhoea
- Creams for sunburn and allergies
- Cream to soothe itching
- Painkillers
- Antibiotics