Fiji is stepping up its fight against dengue fever, thanks to a significant partnership between the Health Ministry and China’s GX Foundation, part of the Belt and Road Initiative. This collaborative effort has led to the introduction of $2 million worth of mosquito-control equipment and supplies, aimed at combating the spread of this mosquito-borne disease.
Currently, a pilot phase of the initiative is in motion, with essential mosquito-control tools being deployed to high-risk areas, including major locations such as CWM Hospital, Nausori and Nadi airports, as well as major municipal markets and Nadi Hospital. This strategic deployment is designed to bolster the capabilities of local teams tasked with managing mosquito and fly populations effectively.
The collaboration has been formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which will pave the way for a nationwide extension of the program. This expansion includes the provision of resources to all health facilities, ports of entry, smaller airports, maritime wharves, and targeted communities throughout Fiji.
Moreover, the partnership is not limited to equipment provision; it also encompasses funding for public awareness campaigns intended to educate citizens about practices that can help reduce dengue transmission. The Health Ministry has emphasized the importance of community involvement and is urging the public to take proactive measures. This includes clearing stagnant water, maintaining clean environments, and utilizing insect repellents.
Overall, this initiative represents a promising stride in enhancing Fiji’s capacity to protect its communities from vector-borne diseases, fostering hope for a healthier future and reducing the risk of dengue outbreaks. By combining resources and expertise, Fiji aims to create a safer environment for all its residents.
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