World Heart Day
Rheumatic Heart Disease prevention and screening took centre stage across Fiji on World Heart Day.
In Tavua, Western Fiji, Cure Kids, in collaboration with the Fiji Water Foundation (FWF), the Ministry of Health, and Heart Heroes Fiji, hosted a celebration in the Naiyalayala district. The event featured echocardiography (heart) screenings, health services, and community awareness activities.
The celebration was a groundbreaking event, drawing over 400 participants and marking a significant milestone in community health awareness. Among the attendees were 97 students from Naseyani District School, highlighting the event’s emphasis on youth engagement.
A total of 34 students underwent screenings for RHD, where 2 new cases of RHD were identified.
The screening was organized by Cure Kids Fiji in partnership with Fiji Ministry of Health’s Paediatricians Dr. James Auto and Dr. Makelesi Waibune and Staff Nurse Makereta Soko.
In Navua, Central Fiji, celebrations were held for the first time, featuring a march led by the Fiji Navy Band and students from ten local schools, supported by medical staff. The event saw a strong turnout and was spearheaded by the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services, with support from Heart Heroes Fiji and Cure Kids.
During the celebration, a total of 45 primary students, 41 secondary students, and 15 teachers were screened by the medical staff of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and Sai Prema Foundation Fiji.
Cake cutting ceremony done by FWF Director, Semi Lotawa, members of the Fiji Airways Men’s 7s team, MOHMS staff and villagers during World Heart Day celebrations at Tavua, Western Fiji on Thursday, September 26.
Fiji Airways flight attendant and RHD advocate, Buli Wainiqolo with members of the Fiji Airways Men’s 7s team during World Heart Day celebrations at Tavua, Western Fiji on Thursday, September 26.
World Heart Day march led by the Fiji Navy Band and students from 10 local schools during WHD celebrations held in Navua on Monday, September 30.