The increasing prevalence of life-threatening pathogens in Fiji’s healthcare facilities is a ‘ticking time bomb’ that can have catastrophic consequences if not addressed promptly, a study revealed. Pathogens are defined as microscopic organisms, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can cause diseases in humans.

Lead author of the study, Sakiusa Baleivanualala, of the University of Otago’s Department of Microbiology and Immunology, studied a life-threatening and antibiotic- resistant pathogen in hospitals in the Pacific commonly in Samoa and Fiji known as Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAb).

The World Health Organisation labelled CRAb as a pathogen of critical concern.

The significant presence of CRAb in Fiji and Samoa could indicate ineffectiveness of some common hospital disinfectants against strains of diseases; and transnational movement of strains, especially between India, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Samoa, the study highlighted.

“CRAb can cause infections of the blood, urinary tract, and lungs and because it is resistant to medicine, infections are hard to treat, with an increased risk of disease spread, severe illness and death,” Mr Baleivanualala said.

“The study findings underline the severity and complexity of the CRAb problem, warranting immediate multidisciplinary and international intervention,” he said.

The study, was recently published in The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific, researchers from education, research, and healthcare institutions in New Zealand, Fiji, Samoa, and Australia, studied the antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAb), a life-threatening pathogen, in hospitals in the Pacific.

In the study, the inter national group of researchers is calling for urgent intervention and surveillance of drug resistant pathogens in Oceania, following the study of a deadly disease.

While the healthcare systems in Fiji and Samoa are committedto providing the best care, Mr Baleivanualala said the issue of antimicrobial resistance was a global one and hopes the research would act as a catalyst for positive change.

Possible Solutions/Interventions

Professor James Ussher, of Otago’s Department of Microbiology and Immunology, highlighted the pressing need for immediate action.

“The increasing prevalence of CRAb in healthcare settings in Fiji and Samoa is a ticking time bomb that could have catastrophic consequences if not addressed promptly,” Professor James Ussher said.

He added actions could included the establishment of programmes to guide the appropriate use of antibiotics; strengthened antimicrobial resistance surveillance; introduce or upgrade rigorous infection control practices within healthcare settings; initiate public awareness campaigns about antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance; and encourage a multifaceted approach to combating antimicrobial resistance.

Fiji National University

Dr Donald Wilson, Associate Dean Research of Fiji National University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS), says the research was a testament to the power of international collaboration.

“Antimicrobial resistance is a global issue – it transcends geographical and political boundaries. We hope this study lays the groundwork for broader public health initiatives, both within the Oceania region and globally, as well as serving as a model for further research and policy action aimed at mitigating the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance,” he said.

Ministry of Health

Permanent Secretary for Health Dr James Fong said the issue of multi-resistant microbes had always been an issue with hospitals.

“We have had similar outbreaks in the past,” Dr Fong said.

“Post COVID we set up stronger infection prevention and control programme that involve extra training and program support,” he said.

“In CWMH, although we continue to have outbreaks, we have been able to control them faster without the severe impact.

“We have also accessed extra resources to ensure better stockpile of Infection prevention and control consumables.” He said last week at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, five days were spent deep cleaning the operation theatre.

“We continue to work on our infection prevention and control programme as a key focus to strengthen clinical governance in all hospitals in Fiji.”

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