Australian Defence Force (ADF) researchers are working side by side with their Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) counterparts to address shared infectious disease challenges.
As part of ‘Exercise No Sik Soljia 26’, researchers from the ADF Malaria and Infectious Disease Institute (ADFMIDI) are conducting two surveys alongside PNGDF personnel.
This includes a health survey at Igam Barracks in Lae, Morobe province and an entomological (study of insects) survey at Moem Barracks in Wewak, East Sepik province.
At Igam Barracks, the health survey is assessing the prevalence of insect borne diseases, including malaria, dengue fever and other bacterial infections, while also checking lifestyle-related health risks such as diabetes and heart disease within the barracks community.
Two weeks into the three-week activity, the joint PNGDF and ADF team have enrolled 174 PNGDF members and 406 family members, with a further 250 school-aged children expected to participate.
The team is supported by a mobile field laboratory, which enables diagnosis of conditions such as malaria, with results and treatment support provided daily to the Igam Barracks Medical Centre.
Meanwhile at Moem Barracks in Wewak, a combined ADF, PNGDF and New Zealand Defence Force team is supporting disease prevention efforts by collecting and analyzing mosquito populations.
The team is identifying mosquito species, infection rates and local transmission risks to help provide more targeted and effective mosquito control programs for military and civilian authorities.
Researchers are also trying to find new ways to reduce the risk of mosquito borne diseases while soldiers conduct official PNGDF duties, including evaluation of insecticide treatments for Defence uniforms.
Commanding Officer ADFMIDI, Lieutenant Colonel Brady McPherson, stated that Exercise No Sik Soljia, demonstrates the value of collaboration, trust and shared capability in safeguarding regional health and security for PNG and Australia.
“This program has strengthened our shared understanding of infectious disease risks and enhanced the ability of both nations’ Defence Forces to protect their personnel and communities.”
“Most importantly, it has forged enduring personal and professional connections that underpin the PNG-Australia Defence partnership.”
