Health authorities in Morobe Province have reported a sharp rise in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) cases, starting at the end of 2025 and peaking in early January 2026.
Weekly reports showed the highest number of cases in epidemic week #2, causing concern among healthcare workers and the public.
Rumours circulated on WhatsApp and through word of mouth about deaths from cough and shortness of breath, but investigations found no confirmed cases.
From 8–13 January 2026, samples collected from Buimo, Bulolo, Butibam, Malahang, Mutzing, Taraka and Situm Health Centres confirmed Influenza Type A with the H3N2 subtype.
Out of 27 samples sent to the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research (PNGIMR), 12 tested positive, with two more cases from medivac patients from Siassi Island.
Healthcare workers reported that this H3N2 strain seemed particularly strong, leading to higher demand for medical supplies.
In January alone, 15 emergency supply orders were sent out, more than in previous years.
Over the past three years, influenza strains in Morobe have varied.
In 2023, Type B (Victoria lineage) was detected in Salamaua.
No samples were submitted in 2024.
In 2025, Type A (H1N1) was found in Erap and in 2026, Type A (H3N2) was confirmed in six health facilities and on Siassi Island.
The Lutheran Church Synod gathering on Siassi Island from 13–23 January 2026 showed the impact of influenza at large events.
Over 436 locals and 235 church delegates were diagnosed with ILI.
Five delegates developed Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) but all survived after medical care.
One person with influenza-like symptoms died from pre-existing conditions.
Patients received timely care at Angau Hospital and were discharged for home management after stabilization.
The surge was not caused by COVID-19.
Health facilities had limited medical supplies and PPE and public awareness of the seasonal nature of influenza was low.
The elderly, especially those over 50, were most affected.
Influenza remains a serious public health concern in Morobe.
Like COVID-19, it spreads through the air and can severely affect older adults and people with existing health conditions.
Authorities recommend keeping patient records to track severe cases and deaths, testing samples during each influenza surge, running ongoing public awareness programs, ensuring PPE availability, following infection control procedures at public gatherings and maintaining weekly surveillance to track trends and prepare responses.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge communities to stay aware and take preventive measures to reduce the impact of seasonal influenza.
