FIJI aims to detect infectious disease outbreaks with epidemic potential within seven days under a new partnership with the United States to strengthen laboratory systems and improve preparedness for public health emergencies.
The Strengthening Infectious Disease Detection Systems (STRIDES) initiative was launched at Twomey Hospital in Tamavua yesterday, bringing together Fiji and the United States to improve disease surveillance, diagnostic capabilities and emergency response.
US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Christina Cavallo said the initiative would build on Fiji’s existing expertise and strengthen systems already in place rather than establish parallel structures.
“Fiji already has deep expertise and real capability,” she said.
“Our job is to strengthen the systems that already work, not to build parallel ones.”
The initiative will support improvements to human and animal laboratory systems, including equipment readiness, biosafety measures, diagnostic capabilities, reliable supplies and workforce training.
Ministry of Health permanent secretary Dr Aalisha Sahukhan said Fiji’s experiences with COVID-19, dengue and influenza had highlighted the importance of maintaining strong health systems before emergencies occurred.
“These experiences taught us a vital lesson: protecting our people depends entirely on the systems we build before a crisis hits,” she said.
Dr Sahukhan said Fiji had capable laboratories and dedicated health professionals, but ensuring those capabilities remained sustainable beyond individual projects was critical.
She said reliable laboratory services were essential to protecting frontline health workers and communities through accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
“Universal health coverage cannot be achieved with temporary fixes; it requires permanent, reliable systems,” she said.
Ms Cavallo said the partnership’s success would be measured by stronger Fijian institutions and local experts leading the work, rather than the amount of equipment delivered.
“This partnership grounded in Fiji’s leadership and enhanced through American expertise — will detect infectious disease threats sooner, respond faster, and save lives,” she said.
She said strengthening Fiji’s disease detection capabilities would also benefit the wider Pacific and beyond.
