The Fred Hollows Foundation and Pacific Eye Institute’s representative, Kirti Prasad, recently recognized Fiji’s significant progress in eliminating trachoma as a public health threat. Although blinding trachoma is not a major cause of vision loss in Fiji, Prasad pointed out that the infection’s persistence in some communities keeps the threat alive.
Through collaboration with the Pacific Eye Institute and the Fred Hollows Foundation in New Zealand, efforts are underway to enhance the training of regional healthcare workers to improve eye health service delivery and health surveillance. Prasad emphasized the commitment to “building capacity of Pacific ophthalmologists, nurses, and eye care workers to deliver high-quality care and surveillance across the region.”
While the foundation’s direct involvement in the trachoma program has been limited due to the low prevalence of blinding trachoma, it has supported various training and field activities. Prasad reiterated the foundation’s dedication to strengthening national health systems and its eagerness to continue collaborating on addressing trachoma and other neglected tropical diseases in the region.
Fiji’s recent validation by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a country that has successfully eliminated trachoma highlights the collective efforts of local and international partners. Announcements from health leaders, including Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, have lauded this achievement as a pivotal moment in achieving health equity across the Pacific. The elimination of trachoma benefits future generations of Fijians, reinforcing the importance of sustained healthcare initiatives.
Fiji now stands among 26 countries that have effectively eradicated trachoma and is the 58th globally to eliminate at least one neglected tropical disease. As the community celebrates this milestone, there is a shared commitment to tackle other pressing public health issues, including skin diseases and eye health, thereby fostering optimism for continued advancements in health and well-being across Fiji. The journey toward improved health outcomes underscores a hopeful future where cooperation leads to significant public health achievements.