Malaria is endemic in 2 PICTs, namely Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands. In the past decade, national health authorities in these countries have made considerable progress in reducing malaria morbidity and mortality.
Dengue fever is a growing problem in the region. A number of people still live in poor housing with lack of proper waste disposal and inadequate drainage, creating favourable breeding conditions for the mosquito vectors of dengue. Dengue occurs in most of the PICTs, inflicting severe health and financial tolls on the populations affected. With appropriate levels of support, the risk of transmission can be reduced and with it the associated morbidity and mortality. Despite its importance, dengue prevention and control activities are under-funded in many countries
Lymphatic Filariasis is one of the world's leading causes of permanent and long-term disability and is currently endemic in 11 of the PICTs covered by WHO/SP. The disease can cause serious impact on the health and socioeconomic status of the people affected. Elimination of lymphatic filariasis can be achieved through annual mass drug administration of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) or ivermectin in combination with albendazole (ALB). To reach the goal of elimination, high coverage rates during the mass drug administration need to be sustained for at least 4-6 years.