Transforming lives in Niue by eliminating Hepatitis

Hazel Heal (Karamū), a New Zealand EHF Fellow and the co-founder of Global Health New Zealand, is working tirelessly to eradicate Hepatitis B from Niue. Through collaborative efforts and grassroots philanthropy, Hazel's mission is addressing health inequities, and transforming healthcare systems in the Pacific region.

Hazel Heal with Dr Eddie Akau'ola, Niue Director of Health (retired) and Gaylene Tasmania, Niue Deputy Secretary of Government

The Journey to Hepatitis Elimination

Niue, a small Pacific island with a population of around 1,500, is on the verge of being recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as the first country to eliminate Hepatitis B. This achievement is part of the Cure a Country project, led by Hazel, which provides essential medication and medical advice to combat Hepatitis. The project involves screening the entire population, identifying those affected by Hepatitis, and providing necessary treatment and support. Although the original goal included eliminating viral Hepatitis, no cases of Hepatitis C were found.

Niue has submitted the validation application to the WHO, which will be under consideration in July and announced in October 2024.

Hazel’s work in Niue is addressing a critical health issue and contributing to the wellbeing and sustainability of Pasifika communities. The project has not only delivered life-saving medical interventions but also built local capacity through training healthcare workers and developing robust healthcare systems.

Documenting the Journey

Support from EHF Fellows has been pivotal in Hazel's mission to combat Hepatitis in Niue. Financial contributions from Fellows have helped to facilitate medical interventions, with Fellow Raj Vaswani match-funding half of the entire project, as well as providing Hazel with valuable mentorship and advice. Fellows have also supported with their time and resources, to help raise awareness through an upcoming documentary directed by Fellow Hunter Weeks, supported by Fellow Kaye Maree Dunn. The documentary, funded entirely by EHF Fellows' donations, shares the transformative journey and highlights the impact of Hazel's work in Niue.

Hazel says:

“I see this Niue project as a demonstrator of our Fellowship's potential, just as the Fellowship sees Aotearoa as a demonstrator country. It shows what we can do - taking vision, adding startup resources and activating our networks and strengths to solving big problems. Together we can create powerful levers and apply them.”

The film, Down with Hepatitis, set to premiere on World Hepatitis Day, 28 July, at the TAPAC Theatre in Auckland, highlights the human stories behind the statistics, showcasing the relief and hope brought to individuals and families in Niue through Hazel’s work. The documentary raises awareness and celebrates Niue's journey towards Hepatitis elimination. It also aims to inspire further action and support for similar efforts across the Pacific. Hazel, Hunter and Kaye Maree believed it was important to document the clinical and logistical aspects of the project, as well as the emotional and personal impact, to show how it is possible to address health inequities in Pasifika communities, by taking action and providing direct support.

Global Implications and Future Goals

The success of the Cure a Country project is a powerful story of what can be achieved through focused effort and collaboration. Hazel’s work in Niue is just the beginning. Plans are already underway to expand this model to other Pacific nations with high Hepatitis burdens, such as Tonga, Kiribati, the Cook Islands, and Samoa. Each of these countries faces unique challenges, but the Niue model provides a scalable and adaptable framework for action.

By leveraging the expertise of visiting health professionals and partnerships with organisations such as Hep B Free, the initiative aims to provide life-saving treatments and build sustainable healthcare infrastructures for Pasifika communities. The ultimate goal is to reduce Hepatitis infections globally by 2030, in line with WHO targets. 

Hazel's dedication to eliminating hepatitis in Niue and beyond highlights the power of collective efforts, strategic collaboration, and unwavering commitment to public health. Her work, supported by EHF Fellows, is transforming lives in Niue and paving the way for similar successes in the Pacific region. This initiative is a shining example of how support for Pasifika communities can lead to significant and lasting positive change. The upcoming documentary premiere will be a moment to celebrate and galvanise further action towards a Hepatitis-free future.

Kaye Maree, who supported with interviews in Niue, reflects: 

“Hazel and the team’s vision and commitment to eliminating Hepatitis in Niue is transforming lives. I was humbled to see the real impact at a grassroots level how this work was both saving lives but also enacting systemic change. I 100 percent believe in this model and would love to see this work expanded and amplified across the Pacific.”

Hazel is offering free tickets to the documentary premiere, which can be booked here.

If you would like to support Hazel’s efforts, you can make a donation here.