A new survey on lymphatic filariasis (kulokula fua) is being conducted in Tonga to follow-up on tests made in the last survey in 2015. The Ministry of Health is collaborating with experts from the University of Queensland (UQ), in investigating lymphatic filariasis by blood testing.

Lymphatic filariasis (LF), is an illness caused by blood-dwelling worms transmitted by mosquitoes.

Despite Tonga's successful elimination of LF in 2017, there have been no follow-up tests conducted since the last survey in 2015.

"It is imperative to detect and treat any remaining cases to prevent further infections," the Ministry of Health stated.

The study will obtain blood samples for testing, which will be carried out in Tongatapu and Australia.

These samples, obtained through finger pricks, will be utilized to screen for LF and other diseases.

The Ministry of Health will also use this opportunity to screen the same blood samples for other neglected tropical diseases including yaws, scabies, and soil-transmitted helminths, as well as other mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue, zika, and chikungunya, and assess the coverage of essential vaccinations like measles.

Several villages and schools have been randomly chosen to take part in this research this week, including Kolomotu'a, Veitongo, Tatakamotonga, Vaotuu, Utulau, and Sia'atoutai.

Meanwhile, the survey will be conducted in Niuatoputapu and Nomuka in July.