Community-Based Risk Analysis for the Spread of Typhoid in Wailoku, Fiji

Abstract

While non-communicable diseases remain the highest burden of morbidity and mortality in Fiji, significant rates or preventable infectious diseases such as typhoid fever continue to pose a threat to the health security of this Pacific island nation. A June 2014 typhoid fever outbreak in the village of Wailoku illustrates the need for better involvement between public health agencies and local populations in terms of health education, prevention, and increased access to sanitary services. A windshield survey of Wailoku identified key areas where gaps exist between physical, environmental, and cultural aspects of village life and an environment which promotes the prevention of typhoid fever. Key recommendations are then made to address these issues from a public health standpoint, including integrated, community-based health promotion using key stakeholders; increased access to public services and sanitation; and increased access to health services, including typhoid vaccines.

Keywords: infectious diseases, Fiji, public health, key stakeholders, community survey, windshield survey, sanitation, preventative medicine, typhoid fever, Salmonella typhimurium, S. typhii