The COVID-19 pandemic and rising operational costs have postponed the national immunisation coverage survey in Fiji. The last survey was conducted in 2013 by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services. Dr. Rachel Devi, head of family health, stated that the training for the survey would provide participants with essential skills to collect crucial data.
Doctor Luisa Cikamatana, chief medical advisor at the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, inaugurated the training at the Fiji National University’s School of Public Health in Tamavua. She emphasized that the data gathered from the survey will help the ministry adopt a targeted approach and create specific solutions to improve health outcomes.
The survey is scheduled to take place in September and will last for six weeks across various divisions. Dr. Devi noted that vaccinating children plays a significant role in preventing numerous illnesses each year and contributes to lowering child mortality rates.
She acknowledged the impact of various challenges, including COVID-19, on the timing of the survey. Dr. Devi highlighted that funding, which is partly sourced from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), is a crucial element in executing these surveys.
Historically, Fiji has witnessed a decline in deaths caused by diseases such as diarrhea and pneumonia following the introduction of vaccines. Dr. Devi stressed that vaccination programs have led to a significant reduction in child mortality rates and emphasized the importance of maintaining immunisation rates above 95 percent. She indicated that if rates fall below this threshold, it is vital to investigate the reasons and take corrective measures. The ministry actively encourages nurses to reach out to families to ensure that children receive their vaccinations, thereby continuing to strengthen coverage and combat preventable diseases.