Fiji is grappling with a significant health crisis, facing one of the highest rates of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) globally. The impact on its youth is alarming, with at least one child in every classroom affected and over 60 young lives lost annually to these preventable conditions. In addition, severe pneumonia and neonatal illnesses continue to be leading causes of death among children under five, claiming more than 200 lives each year.
In response to this urgent health crisis, the Cure Kids Fiji Big Drives event raised $37,500 at the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club recently. The funds will be allocated to strengthening national programs that specifically target RHD and support the Fiji Oxygen initiative, which aims to enhance respiratory care for vulnerable children. Dr. Jimaima Kailawadoko-Matainacake, the Country Manager of Cure Kids, emphasized the significant community turnout at the event reflects a growing concern for child health in Fiji.
Furthermore, the funds raised will enhance community outreach efforts, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare remains limited. The initiatives will include screenings, training, awareness sessions, and outreach efforts aimed at reducing child mortality due to conditions such as RHD and respiratory diseases. Dr. Matainacake acknowledged the importance of improving respiratory care, stating that it is critical to lowering child mortality rates.
This commitment to improving child health services, alongside the community’s active engagement, offers hope for a healthier future for Fiji’s children. Through sustained efforts and collaboration, the nation has the potential to reduce child mortality rates significantly and provide better health outcomes for its youth, fostering a brighter future for generations to come.
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