WHO backs Fiji’s push to eliminate neglected diseases

Fiji’s national effort to eliminate neglected tropical diseases has received strong regional support, with global partners emphasising the importance of sustained action, partnerships and community involvement.

The support was highlighted during World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day celebrations at Twomey Hospital in Tamavua yesterday.

Director of Pacific Technical Support and World Health Organization Representative to the South Pacific, Mark Jacobs, said continued cooperation between governments, health workers and communities is essential to eliminating preventable diseases that still affect vulnerable populations.

“We will look further into this partnership in order to help communities fight diseases in Fiji,” Mr Jacobs said.

Health officials say neglected tropical diseases such as scabies, dengue, leprosy and soil‑transmitted infections remain a public health concern in communities with limited access to clean water, sanitation and health services.

Ministry of Health and Medical Services Head of Health Protection, Aalisha Sahukhan, said the diseases impact education, livelihoods and community well‑being, particularly among vulnerable families.

“These are real challenges faced by our communities, and they require sustained action at every level,” she said.

Assistant Minister for Health, Penioni Ravunawa, said Fiji has made progress through national treatment programmes, strengthened partnerships and the work of more than 2,000 community health workers across the country.

Mr Ravunawa said the Government remains committed to improving prevention, strengthening coordination and ensuring long‑term disease control nationwide.

“Neglected tropical diseases are preventable and treatable, but they continue to affect health and economic productivity,” Mr Ravunawa said.

Meanwhile, health authorities say Fiji’s ongoing strategy focuses on early detection, community awareness and sustained public health programmes aimed at reducing infection rates and preventing future outbreaks.

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