WITH the opening of the Vodafone Hibiscus Festival and similar activities around the country during this school break, the Ministry of Health has pleaded with teenagers to refrain from unnecessary activities that may lead to regrets.
Following past trends of pregnancies among some teenagers that have shown the child being conceived in the month of August, Ministry's spokesman Peni Namotu said it was imperative for teenagers to make wise decisions.
"We don't only have the Hibiscus Festival during this two-week holiday but the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North coming up in Labasa and other similar activities around the country so we need to make this call.
"We are also pleading with parents to be vigilant and know where their children are and who they hang out with," Mr Namotu said.
"We don't want teenagers making choices that may lead to teenage pregnancies, drug and alcohol abuse or even Sexual Transmitted Infections which can develop into HIV/AIDS.
Mr Namotu said parents are to accompany their children to the festival venues.
"It's just being careful and wise now rather than regretting later when things happen. So parents please bear in mind the importance of being with your children during this school break.
"Teenagers, please make wise decisions and think of your future," Mr Namotu said.