The workshops, held over five days, covered a wide range of topics including neglected tropical diseases, malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/STI/Viral Hepatitis. Participants from all six provinces of Vanuatu contributed to the development of key performance indicators, reviewed program progress, and identified priority strategies for the next five years.
A key focus of the strategic plan is to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B, as the country works towards validation for triple elimination. This aligns with global health goals and demonstrates Vanuatu's commitment to improving maternal and child health outcomes.
The HiT3 team also worked with lead clinicians to update the hepatitis B and C guidelines, reflecting latest global best practice. With an estimated 8% of adults in Vanuatu living with hepatitis B, these guidelines are essential to support service delivery.
With the recent WHO alert regarding the growing HIV epidemic in the region, discussions also included planning and preparedness for Vanuatu. The HiT3 program shared insights to support planning efforts. As Vanuatu moves forward with the new NSP, the collaboration between local Ministry of Health and international partners like the Doherty’s HiT3 program showcases a model for addressing complex health challenges in the Pacific region. The finalised NSP, expected to be endorsed soon, will guide Vanuatu's efforts in combating HIV, STIs, and viral hepatitis for the next four years, contributing to improved health outcomes for the population.
The visit and the HiT3 program are both funded under the Australian Government’s Partnerships for a Healthy Region initiative.
More updates and news from the Doherty Institute
Public Health
