Brumbies flanker Tualima diagnosed with dengue fever

Tuaina Taii Tualima, a flanker with Australian Super League side ACT Brumbies, has been diagnosed with dengue fever.

The 27-year-old caught the mosquito-borne disease during a team trip to Fiji in February, when he made his debut for the club against Fijian Drua.

However, Tualima was unable to participate in the second game of the tour after falling ill.

"The affected player has been diagnosed early and is receiving medical input from the team doctor and an infectious disease specialist," a statement from the Brumbies said.

Dengue fever is transmitted by infected mosquitos.

The Fijian government announced an outbreak of the disease in early February, when more than 200 cases had been recorded.

Though most people recover from dengue fever within seven to 14 days, it can on rare occasions be deadly.

The club have not announced an expected return date for Tualima.

Formerly of Queensland Reds, Tualima joined ACT Brumbies from Melbourne Rebels in 2024.