Concurrent outbreaks of cholera and peripheral neuropathy associated with high mortality among persons internally displaced by a volcanic eruption.

Background: In October 2004, Manam Island volcano in Papua New Guinea erupted, causing over 10 000 villagers to flee to internally displaced person (IDP) camps, including 550 from Dugulaba village. Following violence over land access in March 2010, the IDPs fled the camps, and four months later concurrent outbreaks of acute watery diarrhea and unusual neurological complaints were reported in this population.

Materials And Methods: A retrospective case-control study was conducted to identify the risk factors for peripheral neuropathy.

Cholera risk factors, Papua New Guinea, 2010.

Background: Cholera is newly emergent in Papua New Guinea but may soon become endemic. Identifying the risk factors for cholera provides evidence for targeted prevention and control measures.

Methods: We conducted a hospital-based case-control study to identify cholera risk factors.

Are hard-to-reach populations being reached with immunization services? Findings from the 2005 Papua New Guinea national immunization coverage survey.

Objective: To measure immunization coverage among children aged 12-23 months in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and to assess if and why there are differences between hard-to-reach and more accessible communities.

Methods: WHO cluster sampling methodology was employed to measure immunization coverage in PNG's four regions. Survey data were re-analyzed according to a local assessment of geographical accessibility indicated by census unit type: urban, rural and hard-to-reach.

A qualitative evaluation of the immunization program in Papua New Guinea.

Objective: An in-depth evaluation of rural immunization services in Papua New Guinea was conducted to determine the reasons for poor immunization coverage, as well as to document the impact of recent efforts to strengthen the national immunization program.

Method: A qualitative process was used to complement quantitative monitoring data. An interview process, based on open-ended questions, active listening and observation, was designed whereby a team of program supervisors collected information from rural health staff.