Permanent secretary for the Health Ministry Dr Jemesa Tudravu says the Pacific region has confronted numerous public health challenge in recent years.
Speaking at the 13th Pacific Immunisation Managers Meeting 2024 in Sigatoka, Dr Tudravu said this was from the resurgence of measles in 2019 to 2020 and the prolonged effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“These crises have tested the resilience of our health systems and have underscored the critical importance of immunisation and the surveillance of vaccine-preventable diseases,” Dr Tudravu said.
“As we navigate the aftermath of the pandemic, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment.
“There is renewed momentum toward revitalising immunisation programs, yet the global trends related to measles outbreaks remind us of the ongoing need for vigilance and collaboration to safeguard our populations.”
He said a significant focus of discussions would be in reviewing and adopting the Pacific Implementation Framework for Immunization 2030, which provided tailored strategies to strengthen national immunisation systems and guide toward achieving the objectives outlined in the Global Immunisation Agenda 2030.”
Dr Tudravu said the meeting served as a platform for collaborative dialogue and innovative problem-solving within the Pacific region which would allow stakeholders to:
n Strengthen immunisation systems and enhance vaccination coverage.
n Improve disease surveillance;
n Address vaccine hesitancy;
n Optimise supply chain efficiency; and
n Ensure preparedness for potential outbreaks.
