One child in every classroom in Fiji could have Rheumatic Heart Disease – Cure Kids Fiji

Rheumatic Heart Disease is the leading disease-related cause of death for young people in Fiji.

Cure Kids Fiji Community Organization Manager Erini Tokarua says statistically one child in every classroom in Fiji could have Rheumatic Heart Disease.

She says as a leading disease-related cause of death for children in Fiji between 5 and 29 years, Rheumatic Heart Disease is a problem that needs urgent attention and proactive, long-term action to protect our children.

Since 2014, Cure Kids, with the donor support of New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, has partnered with Fiji’s Ministry of Health and Medical Services on the RHD Prevention and Control Programme.

Led by people with Rheumatic Heart Disease and the Fiji Navy Band, over 200 people including Chief Surgeon for Ministry of Health, Doctor Josese Turagava, Cure Kids Fiji staff, families, partners and supporters from near and far had a march for World Heart Day.

The goal is to raise awareness for Rheumatic Heart Disease or RHD in Fiji.

RHD is a chronic, yet preventable non-communicable disease.

It starts with a sore throat or skin sores from streptococcus bacteria which can lead to acute rheumatic fever which causes joint pains, fever, and skin rashes.

Rheumatic fever can then lead to heart damage which is called Rheumatic Heart Disease.

If left uncontrolled, Rheumatic Heart Disease can lead to health complications, and even result in death.

Doctor Turagava says Rheumatic Heart Disease is affecting the lives of too many of our young people.

He encourages everyone especially parents and carers of school aged children to watch for the symptoms and seek care when needed.

Tokarua says it is vital we all learn to be proactive about our health.

She says if you are sick, if you have a sore throat, or skin sores; seek medical attention.

If left uncontrolled it could lead to rheumatic fever or Rheumatic Heart Disease.