The Fred Hollows Foundation has expressed its enthusiasm following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) validation that Fiji has officially eliminated trachoma as a public health issue. This announcement marks a major milestone in public health, as trachoma is recognized as the leading infectious cause of blindness globally and is classified as a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD).
The Foundation’s concerted efforts in combatting trachoma in Fiji began with its partnership with the Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Trust from 2016 to 2019, alongside support from the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). Notably, trachoma’s prevalence has been tied to inadequate water resources and poor sanitation, often affecting the most vulnerable populations, particularly children, which can lead to serious vision impairments in adults.
The CEO of the Fred Hollows Foundation, Ross Piper, commended the collaborative efforts among various stakeholders, including the Fijian government, international partners, and organizations like Project Heaven, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and the Burnet Institute. “This is a significant achievement that is only made possible through cooperation and collaboration from local through to international partners,” Piper stated, highlighting the importance of unified action to eradicate this disease.
Fiji’s journey toward eliminating trachoma began well before 2016, with foundational surveys conducted by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), setting the stage for subsequent success. Dr. Anasaini Cama, the Foundation’s Pacific Trachoma Lead, noted that the complexities of trachoma in Fiji required extensive research to inform initiatives effectively.
The recognition from WHO places Fiji among just 26 countries worldwide that have successfully eliminated trachoma, and it is the 58th country to eradicate at least one NTD. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General, emphasized the significance of this moment, envisioning a future where subsequent generations are spared from the suffering caused by trachoma.
Health officials, including Fiji’s Health Minister Hon. Dr. Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, celebrated this accomplishment as a defining moment for health equity in the Pacific, acknowledging the collaborative efforts that spanned across communities and healthcare facilities.
The successful elimination of trachoma underscores Fiji’s commitment to improving public health outcomes and showcases the power of targeted investments in health initiatives. As Fiji moves forward, there remains hope for continued progress in combating other health challenges, ultimately contributing to an overall increase in the quality of life for its citizens. This achievement not only represents a public health victory but also serves as an inspiration for ongoing efforts in global health collaboration and intervention.