MHMS FIJI

Category Public Advisory

OVER 80,000 CHILDREN IMMUNISED THROUGH THE NATIONAL MEN C IMMUNISATION PROGRAM

OVER 80,000 CHILDREN IMMUNISED THROUGH THE NATIONAL MEN C IMMUNISATION PROGRAM

The National Meningococcal (Men C) Immunisation Program, in its 4th week has to date immunised over 80,000 children aged 1-19 years across the Central Division and the Ra Sub-Division.

The Ministry’s Immunisation team has achieved 100 percent visitations to all schools in Ra-Subdivision and 89 percent visitations to schools in the Central Division.

The nation-wide mass immunisation campaign led by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services is supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO).  The Men-C immunisation programme aims to immunise all children and teenagers in Fiji aged between 1 to 19 years of age, free of cost, and is being delivered at schools, kindergartens, health centres and nursing stations across Fiji. The program began in the Central Division and Ra Subdivision on 14th May and will continue until Friday 29th June 2018.

The immunisation campaign will be rolled out in the Eastern, Northern and Western Divisions in the coming months. The shipment of the next round of 200,000 doses is to ensure that the 320,000 children between the ages of 1-19 years in Fiji will be immunised. Children and teenagers are most at-risk of contracting Men-C.  The vast majority of cases in 2018 have been under the age of 19.

The Ministry would like to remind the general public that Men.C Immunisation is safe, it is effective, and it saves lives. Mass immunisation of Fijian youths also helps to protect the broader community, as it has been shown to significantly prevent the ongoing transmission of the bacteria within a population.

Meanwhile, the Ministry would like to thank all the parents who have consented so far to have their children vaccinated.  The Ministry also acknowledges the teachers and the communities for their ongoing support for the National Meningococcal (Men C) Immunisation Program.

Parents who are yet to give consent for their children to be immunised are reminded that Meningococcal disease is a deadly disease and it’s in the best interest of the children that they should get immunised.

  • For children aged 1-5 years old, who do not attend school, parents and guardians can get them immunised by taking them to the nearest health centre or nursing station.
  • For children aged 5 -17 years old, and in school, immunisation teams are visiting schools and immunising children under parental consent. If any child misses out on their immunisation at school, parents are encouraged to take their child to the nearest health centre or nursing station.
  • For children aged 18-19 years old, undertaking tertiary level studies, stays home or is working, it is advised that you visit the nearest health centre or nursing station
  • Consent forms are provided to children under the age of 18 years, and immunisation will only be given to those children with a signed parental consent form.

Families are advised to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of this deadly disease and practice proper hygiene to prevent it from spreading. Men-C is treatable when caught in its early stages, but early detection is key to survival. If there is any sign suspect meningococcal disease, immediately go to a health facility to be assessed.

How to prevent the spread of diseases such as meningococcal disease:

Fijians are encouraged to practise proper hygiene by:

  • Covering their mouth and nose with a tissue or handkerchief when coughing and sneezing
  • Disposing of used tissues in the bin or washing your handkerchiefs daily with soap and water
  • After coughing or sneezing, wash your hands with soap and water
  • Don’t share eating utensils, cups/glasses/water bottles, drinks at social gathering (taki), cigarettes or kava bowls.

Further information about meningococcal disease:

Symptoms of meningococcal disease, especially for older children and adults include:

  • Sudden fever
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Stiff neck/backache

Other symptoms include nausea, eyes are sensitive to light, confusion, and in the final stages of the disease, a red/purple rash on the skin.

In babies and small children, parents and carers should stay alert for the following symptoms:

  • High fever
  • Unusual crying
  • Refusing to eat or drink
  • Vomiting
  • Floppy/drowsiness
  • Changes in sleeping patterns
  • Seizures or fits

In the final stages of the disease, a red/purple rash on the skin.

For further information about the disease, visit the Ministry’s website: http://www.health.gov.fj/?page_id=6575 for information on Immunisation roll out program visit http://www.health.gov.fj/?page_id=6884

-ENDS- 

PRESS CONFERENCE ON MEN.C VACCINE

PRESS CONFERENCE ON MEN.C VACCINE

STATEMENT BY THE MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND MEDICAL SERVICES

HON. ROSY AKBAR

(PLEASE CHECK WITH THE RECORDED AUDIO)

THURSDAY 3RD MAY 2018

MHMS HQ MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM FROM 12PM TO 1PM

Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen,

This press conference has been organized to again outline the Ministry’s response in combatting the spread of Men-C in Fiji and provide an update on the procurement of the vaccinations for Men-C Infection.

Situational Report on the meningococcal C outbreak, Fiji

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services confirms that there are a total of 58 cases reported from January 1st to April 22nd, 2018. Of these, 24 are laboratory confirmed, and 34 are either suspected or probable cases based on clinical diagnosis by a doctor.

Of the total 58 cases, 38 have been from the Central Division, 17 from the West, 2 from the North, and 1 from the Eastern Division. Males account for 66.7% of cases, and females 33.3%. As of April 22nd, all confirmed cases were below 19 years old.

There have been four confirmed deaths from meningococcal disease this year. All these deaths have been in the age group less  than  5  years.  There  have  been  no  deaths  from meningococcal disease reported in the last five weeks, since the outbreak was declared. And we thank the general public for adhering to the preventatives messages that the Ministry has been putting out through mass media advertising and awareness campaigns. Indeed with no deaths recorded within last 5 weeks, it shows that the general public has been responsive to the awareness messages conveyed through various communication channels.

On that note, I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to the National Meningococcal Taskforce, whose membership includes: paediatric, internal medicine, intensive care unit, pathology, and emergency medicine consultants and heads of departments, and infection prevention control officers, and medical superintendents of the Divisional Hospitals; the Deputy Secretary Public Health, Divisional Medical Officers, Suva Subdivisional Medical Officer, National Advisor Family Health, Director Epidemiology, National Advisor Environmental Health, National Advisor Communicable Disease; A/Director Fiji Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Services; representatives from the School of Public Health at the Fiji National University College of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS); the Pacific Community (SPC); the Fiji Program Support Facility; and the World Health Organisation (WHO). The Fiji General College of Practitioners has also sent representatives to Taskforce meetings.

In addition to the Taskforce, the Vaccine Preventable Disease Committee, led by the National Advisor Family Health, and including the National Expanded Program on Immunisations Coordinator, and the Divisional Directors of Nursing, has also spearheaded planning and procurement of the vaccine through consultations with UNICEF.

Furthermore, the World Health Organisation’s Office in the South Pacific (WHO- SP), based in Suva, has been a key member of the Taskforce from the very beginning. And through WHO-SP we have also had the opportunity to consult, via teleconference, with health authorities in other countries that have been through similar outbreaks, as well as other international health organisations. We would also like to thank DFAT  for their tremendous assistance given during the consultation process during this outbreak.

The Ministry continues to intensify its public health awareness and closely monitor the reported cases. We have also captilised on the targeted awareness opportunities through last week’s Coca Cola Games, during which our team was also involved in the promotion of public health measures and awareness, zone nurses and health inspectors were also available at the game site providing education and information materials to participants. An informational video was also played on the big screen at the Games. Similarly, this week, we have teams at the divisional youth and sports conference held at the Lelean Memorial High School to raise awareness on combatting the spread of Men.C.

The appropriate antibiotics are available in all divisions and subdivisions, and all suspected cases have been referred to Divisional Hospitals.

Rollout of  national mass  immunisation campaign for ages 1 to 19 years

In terms of the further progress plans, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services has committed to the rollout of National Mass Immunisation Campaign for 333,876 within the ages 1 to 19 years. The vaccination program will target meningococcal C because this is the type of bacteria that is causing this outbreak.

The decision by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to rollout the Mass vaccination for 1-19 year olds has been based on  the  consultations, extensive  review  of  the  evidence  on international best practice for response to outbreaks of meningococcal disease.    This  vaccination  program  has  the following objectives:

  1. Protecting those most at risk of disease (children under the age of 5, and teenagers).
  2. Protecting those most at risk of dying from the disease (children under the age of 5).
  3. Reducing spread of the disease by lowering the amount of people in the community that carry the bacteria, causing what is known as ‘herd immunity’.

The latest case information shows that the vast majority of cases recorded this year have been in the under 19 age group, with close to 40 percent under age 5. All the deaths this year have been in the under 5 age group. Thus, individuals under 19 years old are the most at-risk for getting the disease and they need to be protected. They are also known to be the biggest age group that spread the bacteria, likely for behavioural reasons.

Vaccinating the 1-19 age group against meningococcal C has been shown in other countries (e.g. Australia) to greatly reduce the cases of meningococcal C in all age groups, and most importantly in babies <1 year of age (who will not get the vaccine because of reduced effectiveness with immature immune systems).

Vaccine Rollout

Since the outbreak declaration on March 20th  2018, Taskforce has been working tirelessly to secure the procurement of the

Men. C Vaccine. Within a month through its prompt response, the Ministry was able to secure confirmation from International Coordinating Group for Vaccine Provision for Epidemic Meningitis Control (ICG) that we would have access to the vaccines required to vaccinate everyone from the ages of 1-19 years during this outbreak.

Upon confirmation received on the April 20th  2018, we are expecting the first batch of vaccines to arrive on the 4th  May 2018. This has been an intensive process, complicated by the fact that access  to  this  stockpile  is  usually  prioritised  for outbreaks of meningococcal disease in the African Meningitis Belt, and for low income countries (based on Gross National Income per Capita- GNI) – which Fiji is not. However, the Ministry made every effort in its power to ensure this application was successful.

The Government made the promise to vaccinate everyone from the age of 1 to 19years.   There has been “NO DELAYS” since the rollout of the immunisation campaign is planned to begin on the 14th of May 2018.

In addition to this procurement process, supplies of Men C vaccine are limited on the world market, and it would have been extremely difficult, and much costlier, to procure this massive amount of vaccine by any other means.

Vaccination campaign rollout

The conjugate monovalent Men C vaccine is safe and effective, it has been licensed for use in countries like Canada, United Kingdom and Australia since the late 1990s. The rollout of the immunisation campaign will commence within days of the arrival of the vaccines. Initial rollout will be in the Central and Ra subdivision in west. It will continue until all the individuals within the target age group across Fiji have received their vaccination.

Children attending schools will be vaccinated at their primary/secondary schools and kindergartens. Those children who might miss the vaccination at schools are required to go to their nearest healthy facility which will be having a dedicated teams to provide the vaccination. So we are encouraging every parent, guardian and community at large to make good use of this opportunity.

While for individuals at tertiary level, working or staying home and are within the targeted age group can get vaccinated at their nearest health facility. The Ministry will continue to provide more information on the vaccination rollout through media advertisements and awareness.

Meanwhile, we have emphasised earlier that vaccination is just one part of the strategy to combat this outbreak. The other components of the prevention strategies have continued throughout the outbreak i.e. enhanced surveillance and early case detection, early treatment, contact tracing, and prevention (public awareness).

We continued to reiterate that the public continues to play an important role through recognising possible early symptoms and going early to a health facility to be checked, and employing basic hygiene (washing hands with soap and water, coughing into a handkerchief/tissue, not sharing drinking cups/glasses/bottles) to prevent the spread of the bacteria.

Dengue Update

Just on the dengue update, we have so far 3197 confirmed dengue cases recorded so far this year. There is a downward trend in all the divisions. The breakdown of cases by divisions as follows: Northern is 1443, Western is 908, central 825 and eastern is 21.  As such we thank the general public for their continued support in our efforts to combat dengue and we would like to encourage them to continue to practice the preventative measures to prevent themselves and their families from Communicable Diseases.

Media Responsibility on Fair/Accurate Reporting

So, ladies and gentlemen, those are the facts of the situation. We are dealing with this issue responsibly and effectively, in consultation with international experts who have helped us craft the most effective response strategy possible. And, as of tomorrow, we are going to have the vaccines in hand to begin the nationwide vaccinations to combat the spread of Men-C in Fiji.

It has been unfortunate to see various political parties attempt to seize on this issue for their own political purposes, by making deeply irresponsible and unsubstantiated commentary. They’ve caused public confusion and they’ve created misplaced anxiety and fear among our people on a very important issue that pertains to public health and wellbeing.

At every stage of our management of this issue, the Ministry has been clear and transparent, and we’ve provided critical information that has helped protect our people from the spread of this disease. That is what we are focussed on, and I suggest that members of the other political parties focus on the same. We all owe it to our people to only speak the truth, because when it comes to public health, the truth saves lives.

The Ministry has reached out to media organisations and sought their support in  protecting the  people of  Fiji,  by  providing truthful, accurate and scientifically valid information on vaccines and vaccination. It is essential that communities maintain their confidence and trust in the vaccination programme as a whole, because it is safe, and it will be very effective in combatting the spread of Men-C.

Instead of spending time enabling the spread of false information from certain political parties, we ask that members of the media practice professional and responsible reporting to raise awareness of the importance and the safety of vaccines. Every minute you spend enabling false information that you fail to make sure is true or accurate is a minute spent playing with Fijian lives. This is not the time for politics, lies or for sensationalising. The Fijian people deserve much better.

Here in this Ministry, we are going to keep doing our jobs to help protect the Fijian people from the spread of diseases like Men- C. We aren’t deterred by political attacks that attempt to undermine our work, because we are here to serve the best interests of all Fijians at all times. That is always our mission.

Thank you.

Opening of the Valelevu Health Centre24 hour service

EVENT: LAUNCHING OF VALELEVU HEALTH CENTRE 24-HOURS GENERAL OUTPATIENT SERVICES

VENUE:    VALELEVU HEALTH CENTRE

DATE:     WEDNESDAY 17TH JANUARY 2018

TIME:      3PM  

 

Ladies and Gentlemen, Good afternoon!

It is a great privilege and honor to be here among you all for the official launching of the Valelevu Health Centre 24/7 hours health services that we have embarked on since the beginning of this week.

Ladies and gentlemen, Valelevu Health Centre is one of the biggest and busiest health center in Suva subdivision serving a total of 58,000 population.  On a daily basis, this health centre serves an average of 500 to 700 patients per day and even reaching up to 900 patients during disease outbreaks.  And now with the opening of its doors for 24 hours and 7 days a week, Valelevu health centre is expected to serve an estimated population of about 200,000 people along the Suva-Nausori corridor.

Ladies and gentlemen, by way of background, the Valelevu Health Centre was established in 1982 covering the areas from Kenova to Laqere.  It first started as a primary health care facility that provided 8-hour services.

Due to increasing population and demand for better health services, in 2009, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services have ventured into extending the health centre’s operating hours to 16 hours a day from 6:30am to 10pm; and since Monday, 15th January this year, Valelevu health centre is now open 24 hours!

These developments are aligned with the ongoing efforts of the Fijian Government to reachout to all Fijians be it through education, health, infrastructure, housing, primary industries and trade to name a few.

My ministry’s vision is creating “A healthy population” and to realize this vision, the Fijian Government is committed to enhance and improve access to health services for our ordinary Fijians through creating a supportive environment such as this 24-hour services at Valelevu health centre.

What will this 24-hour services at Valelevu health centre mean for all of us?  This means that people living along the Suva – Nausori corridor that needs urgent medical attention and those who are critically ill will have access to medical services day and night. All in all it means through better service, better care leading to better health.

It also means that people who are victims of road accidents which is common along the Suva-Nausori roads and injuries are attended to at the health centre and stabilized before transfer to CWM hospital. This will also mean, unnecessary pain, suffering, hospitalizations, disability and even premature deaths is prevented or reduced. This will also mean that people will still be able to access health services without missing work or school and prevent people from overcrowding the health centre during early hours in the morning and in the afternoon after work or school rushing to the health centre before it closes.

The Fijian government has committed a lot of resources towards the realization of this 24-hour services.  The number of doctors and nurses was increased to cater for this additional service.  A 24-hour ambulance services will be based at this health centre for rapid response and transfer of acutely ill patients. The place where we are currently standing will be renovated to ensure a more spacious and suitable waiting area is provided for the patients and their relatives.

A modern and much improved emergency department will be built on the current existing wooden building on your left side when you exit the main gate.

These developments are in addition to the current and ongoing quality improvement programs undertaken by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to ensure that its customers, the patients and their families are provided the best health care services that they deserve. For the last 5 years the Fijian Government has invested a total of $102million into upgrading and constructing new health facilities around Fiji. In the Suva- Nausori corridor there are new health facilities to open that will uplift the health services and improve accessibility. We are looking at the new Makoi Maternity Unit and Naulu (Nakasi HC). The Makoi Maternity Unit will initially offer ambulatory services such as antenatal clinics, maternal and child health clinics, family planning and ultrasound. When fully open the Unit will also have 18 inpatient beds and three delivery rooms for low risk births. Ladies and gentlemen, the CWMH since 2015 has also got 4 new state of the art theater, Intensive Care Unit, Burns Unit and Coronary Care Unit.  Similarly, the Raiwaqa Health Centre was also uplifted to include the dentistry services.

Ladies and gentlemen, apart from the capital projects the Ministry also strategizes on modernised systems that generate multiple benefits in terms of enhancing patient care and staff role. One of such systems includes the implementation of the electronic Queue Management System (QMS) which all of you are familiar with that was introduced in 2015 and has been actively operating at this health centre since January last year.

You can vouch it yourselves that before this new queue system, this waiting area was overcrowded and too noisy like a market place with everyone rushing to be seen by our staff.  But now, everyone is seen by a doctor in an orderly and fair fashion, reducing patient’s waiting time, stress and anxiety while waiting.

This electronic queue system also measures our staff service time and provides an effective system of monitoring staff workload, to allow greater management to improve efficiency and productivity serving waiting patients.

Ladies and gentlemen, the Ministry of Health and Medical services is mandated to provide equitable, accessible and quality health services to the people of Fiji.

We exist to help people maintain the highest level of good health that is attainable, that is a state of complete physical, mental, social well-being and free from disease.  However, each one of us has the responsibility of looking after our own health, our family’s health. In order to do this, we need to keep ourselves healthy.  Like they say, prevention is better than cure so we need to be proactive and take measures to stay healthy. We need to breathe fresh air by keeping our environment free from pollution and tobacco smoke. We need to eat a healthy and balanced diet with 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables every day.

We need to control the use of alcohol and too much drinking kava with unhealthy chasers that go with it. We need to be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day. We need to actively participate in our health facilities prevention activities such as NCD and cancer screening.  We need to access health services at the early stage of any illness before it becomes complicated, more costly to treat and not when it’s too late!

I urge everyone here to join our hands together to keep Fiji a happy, healthy and safe place to live in where children are nurtured in body and mind and where people work and age with dignity.

At this juncture, I wish to acknowledge all the staff of Valelevu Health Centre for their commitment and hardwork to deliver the health services to our communities. Likewise, also acknowledge all the staff of MOH including DSHS, Dr Luisa, DMO Central (Dr Dave Whippy) and SDMO (Dr Pablo Romakin) for their dedication, teamwork and commitment to deliver the 24/7 service here at Valelevu HC and we hope that in the near future we will be able to provide similar service to other busy health facilities around Fiji.

Ladies and gentlemen, with these few words, I now have the pleasure in launching the 24 hour services at Valelevu Health Centre.

Thank you.

God Bless.

 

 

Flood Message

What is Flooding?

Flooding is a dangerous natural event that occurs when water overflows onto land that is usually dry. This excess water can be temporary, but it can also linger for extended periods, causing significant disruption and damage. Flood waters are powerful and move with great force, posing a serious threat to people and property. The moving water can carry debris like branches, rocks, and even buildings, which can cause serious injuries or become deadly projectiles. The current of flood waters can be strong enough to knock people off their feet and even sweep away entire vehicles. Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware of the dangers of flooding and take necessary precautions to stay safe during flood events.

When does it occur?

Flooding in Fiji can happen throughout the year, but there are certain times when the risk is higher. One major cause is tropical cyclones, which can bring intense rainfall and storm surges that overwhelm rivers and coastal areas. These cyclones are most frequent during the warm season, from November to April, which also coincides with Fiji’s wet season. So, the period from November to April sees an increased risk of flooding due to both heavy rainfall and the potential for cyclones. However, floods can also occur outside of this window as a result of heavy localized downpours.

Where can it occur?

While low-lying areas, coastal zones, and places near bodies of water like rivers, streams, culverts, drains, and dams are certainly more susceptible due to factors like overflowing rivers or storm surge, even higher ground isn’t entirely out of risk. Flash flooding, for example, can develop very quickly in areas with heavy rain, even if they aren’t typically prone to flooding. Human development can also play a role – construction that reduces the land’s ability to absorb rainwater can increase the risk of flooding even in unexpected places. So, while it’s always wise to be extra cautious in traditionally high-risk areas, staying informed and aware of the potential for flooding wherever you are is important.

What are the risks during floods?

  1. Death
  2. Drowning
  3. Injury
  4. Loss of property
  5. Loss of loved ones

    Floods pose a number of dangers during the event itself and in the aftermath. The immediate threat comes from the water itself. Flood waters can be fast-moving and powerful, carrying debris that can cause injuries or even crush structures. Sadly, many flood deaths happen when people try to drive through moving flood waters.

    Even if the water isn’t moving quickly, it can still be dangerous. Floodwater can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and animal waste, which can lead to a variety of illnesses. In addition, floodwater can hide electrical hazards and uneven surfaces, which can cause injuries.

    After the flood waters recede, there are still risks to be aware of. Mold can quickly grow in damp buildings, posing health risks. Additionally, damaged electrical systems and exposed gas lines can create fire hazards. Floods can also disrupt essential services like clean water and electricity, which can make it difficult to recover. The stress of a flood can also lead to mental health problems for those affected.

What should you do?

  1. Prepare Your Home
  2. Prepare an emergency kit with food and water, flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
  3. Move important items to the highest possible floor to protect them from flood damage.
  4. Move animals and livestock to higher ground
  5. Get to higher ground early or designated evacuation centres
  6. Ensure that food and clean water rations are stored safely
  7. Cook food thoroughly and boil all water before consuming these
  8. Watch out for hidden dangers (Flooded roads, electrical wires, broken trees and structures)
  9. Keep dry and warm
  10. Wear enclosed footwear to protect from injury and infection

Know the risk

  1. Never underestimate the strength of the water
  2. Listen to the latest weather updates and emergency instructions and keep safe
1.    Don’t walk or swim through flooded waters.

2.    Don’t drive through flood waters.

3.    Don’t drive over bridges that are flooded. Floodwaters can make the bridge unstable and also stop you from seeing the bridge itself and this can lead to drowning in these areas.

4.    Don’t play in flooded waters.

5.    Don’t fish in flooded waters.

6.   Don’t touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

Don’t risk your life during floods!

For more information please visit the Ministry and Medical Services website http://www.health.gov.fj

Flood Message

 

Fiji celebrates 40 years of Primary Health Care towards Universal Health Coverage: ‘Health for all. Everyone. Everywhere’

Joint Press Release

 

Fiji celebrates 40 years of Primary Health Care towards Universal Health Coverage:

‘Health for all. Everyone. Everywhere’

For release 7 April 2018

7 April 2018 | SUVA, FIJI: On April 7 the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Fiji Ministry of Health & Medical Services (Ministry) have come together to celebrate the  70th Anniversary of WHO and the 40th Anniversary of Primary Health Care (PHC) in Fiji. These special events mark a time for both organizations to recommit to their mutual goal of advocating for Universal Health Coverage – Health for all – Everyone. Everywhere.

April 7, 2018 marks a special date for the WHO as 70 years ago the global community came together to establish the WHO – the United Nations agency founded on the principle that health is a right for all. In celebration of this anniversary WHO calls upon the global community to recommit to the basic principle that access to essential health care is a human right for all. Achieving universal health coverage means that everyone can access the health services they need, where and when they need them, without financial hardship.

Fiji has long since committed to achieving this goal, as today Fiji celebrates the 40th Anniversary of its adoption of the Alma Ata Declaration on Primary Health Care. Strengthening primary health care is the means to achieving Universal Health Coverage.

This commitment is deeply enshrined under Section 38 of the Fijian Constitution (2013), for which the state must take reasonable measures within available resource to achieve the progressive realisation of the right of every Fijian to health, and to the conditions and facilities necessary to good health, to health services, including reproductive health.

Dr Corinne Capuano, WHO Director of Pacific Technical Support and Representative for the South Pacific, commends Fiji: ‘I welcome very much that Fiji puts special emphasis on Primary Health Care during this years’ celebration, because we believe that reinvigorating Primary Health Care is for Fiji and the Pacific Island Countries the way forward to achieving Universal Health Coverage’.

Universal health coverage is beneficial and already happening. But we can do more and better.

At least half the world’s people don’t receive the essential health services they need. About 100 million people are being pushed into extreme poverty (<$1.90 a day) because of payments for health services. As a result, children have to abandon school and dreams of a career so tuition money can pay a family member’s medical bills. Others leave jobs – or cannot get jobs – because they have to take care of a sick family member. Over 800 million people (almost 12 percent of the world’s population) spend at least 10 percent of their household budgets on health expenses for themselves, a sick child or other family member.

On World Health Day, the World Health Organization is calling on world leaders to live up to their commitments and to action on them.

Countries are approaching universal health coverage in different ways. In Fiji, the Ministry is committed to ensuring that the most efficient route to universal health coverage is to get it right at the lowest and most accessible level that serves the majority of Fijians. ‘Good Primary Health Care that integrates the delivery of essential public health and clinical services at both the facility and community levels should be the triggering point for change’ says the Minister for Health & Medical Services, Hon. Rosy Akbar.

In some Pacific Islands, if the situation doesn’t improve, one in three 30-year-olds will die before their 70th birthday from non-communicable diseases such as heart attack, stroke, diabetes or cancer. To maximize their chances of living long, productive lives, we need to provide access to services that are effective in preventing and managing these diseases.

We need care that promotes health and prevents sickness. We also need better care for people who already have health conditions. Comprehensive care must be available closer to people’s homes, coordinated by health-care teams to provide both convenience and the opportunity to build enduring and trusting relationships with the people and the communities they serve.

‘WHO is committed to support Fiji and other Pacific Islands in their goal in ensuring that all Pacific Islanders have access to the essential health care, regardless of whether they are based in one of the Pacific’s urban centers or on a remote outer island’ says Dr Corinne Capuano, WHO Director of Pacific Technical Support and Representative for the South Pacific.

This is why everyone should be part of this dialogue – because it concerns everybody’s life.

In celebration of this special event, and to inspire others to join the conversation, the Ministry is launching a series of debates and events to strengthen awareness and discuss ideas on how to achieve primary health care.

Over the coming months, the following events will be held and all interested citizens are encouraged to join:

  • Series of Public Debates that will be organized jointly by the Ministry and local tertiary institutions and partner agencies.
  • Lecture Series organized by the Ministry and Academia
  • Divisional Health Office Celebrations—Year long celebrations with Key Health Event Dates
  • Public Awareness and Advertisements
  • Series of Wellness Events—Free Health Screening, health concerts to recognize former PHC providers and success stories aligned to the key elements of PHC
  • Forming stronger collaboration and partnerships with stakeholders under the Wellness settings in Fiji such as the Private Sector, Business Community, NGOs/CSOs, Government Agencies, Communities, Villages, Development Partners, and Academic Institutions.

If you believe in the basic human right to health, WHO and the Ministry encourage you to join in the campaign to make Universal Health Coverage a reality.

For additional information about WHO World Health Day and Universal Health Coverage, visit:

For further information or interviews, contact:

Dr. Isimeli Tukana, National Advisor NCD, Head of National Wellness Centre, Ministry of Health & Medical Services

E-mail: isimeli.tukana@govnet.gov.fj

Mobile: (+679) 9906945

World Health Organisation, Division of Pacific Technical Support

Martina Pellny

Team Coordinator Health Systems, Division of Pacific Technical Support

Email: pellnym@who.int

Tel: (+679) 3234133, and Website: http://www.wpro.who.int

World Health Day 2018