Another eight people have tested positive in Fiji for the influenza A/H1N1, bringing the total confirmed cases to 27 in the country.

This was revealed by Fiji Ministry of Health officials on late Monday as the country was quickly running out of chemicals used for testing the virus and there is only enough stock to cater for this week.

Doctors in Fiji have been reminded to strictly abide by clinical criteria to ensure resources are saved as samples continue to be vetted in the health labs.

Fiji's officials said that the growing number of confirmed cases could mean cancellation of some public events and the closure of schools.

The country is preparing itself for the Pacific Youth Festival that will be launched on Saturday where 1000 youths will be converging.

It was estimated earlier that two thirds of Fiji's population could be infected.

(Xinhua News Agency July 7, 2009)