In a historic milestone for public health, Fiji has been officially validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem. Trachoma, the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness and one of the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), no longer poses a threat in the country.
This marks the first NTD to be eliminated in Fiji, making it the 26th country globally to eliminate trachoma and the 58th to eliminate at least one NTD.
“WHO congratulates Fiji and its network of global and local partners on reaching this milestone,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Future generations of Fijians have been given a precious gift in being set free from the suffering that trachoma has inflicted on their ancestors.”
Trachoma is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, spreading through personal contact, contaminated surfaces, or flies that come into contact with eye or nasal discharge of infected individuals. Repeated infections lead to scarring, inward-turning eyelids, and eventual blindness. It continues to affect communities worldwide where clean water and sanitation remain limited.
Fiji’s Success Story
“Fiji’s success in eliminating trachoma is a beacon of what’s possible when communities, governments, and partners unite behind a shared goal,” said Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “This is a celebration of the power of Pacific leadership and the impact of sustained investment in health. WHO congratulates Fiji and is committed to supporting countries across the Region in advancing health for all so that no one is left behind.”
Historically, trachoma was a major health concern in Fiji, with reports from the 1930s and 1950s showing widespread infection. Although cases declined by the 1980s, renewed concern in the 2000s led to a comprehensive response.
Since 2012, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, supported by international partners, has conducted population-based surveys, laboratory studies, and integrated school and sanitation programs. These sustained, data-driven efforts confirmed that trachoma no longer represents a public health problem in Fiji and that systems are in place for ongoing surveillance and management of future cases.
“Fiji’s elimination of trachoma is a defining moment for health equity in the Pacific,” said Honourable Dr Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, Minister of Health and Medical Services. “This achievement reflects years of coordinated action – across villages, health facilities and regional platforms – demonstrating unwavering commitment of our healthcare workers, communities leading the change. As we celebrate this milestone, we call on our donors and partners in the Pacific and beyond to continue supporting accelerated action of neglected tropical diseases to address other diseases not only in Fiji, but across the Pacific.”
Contribution to Global Progress
NTDs affect more than 1 billion people worldwide, mostly in impoverished tropical regions. The WHO Road Map for NTDs 2021–2030 aims to prevent, control, eliminate, or eradicate 20 diseases by 2030.
Since 2016, 13 countries in the Western Pacific Region have eliminated at least one NTD, including six—Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, and Viet Nam—that have also eliminated trachoma. Fiji’s success contributes significantly to regional and global progress toward ending NTDs.
WHO continues to work with countries to eliminate trachoma and other NTDs, ensuring a healthier future for all—especially the most disadvantaged populations.
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