Posted on 03 May 2022
A Covid outbreak has spread rapidly across Papua New Guinea, affecting many people. The World Health Organisation reveals that, as of mid-April 2022, more than 43,600 cases have been confirmed, with 649 deaths. The true burden is likely to be much higher as many cases will have gone unreported.
This situation threatens the implementation of the TB control program, but at the same time it provides an opportunity to strengthen the healthcare system. The PNG government has approved K.4.5million to implement its COVID-19 plan, and pledged to commit more resources when the need arises. Furthermore, the new TB facility funded by the Australian government in Angau Hospital has been diverted into a COVID-19 facility.