The 11th edition of The Standard Treatment for Common Illnesses of Children in Papua New Guinea was officially launched today by the Paediatric Society of Papua New Guinea (PSPNG) and representatives from the Australian High Commission.
The book, which has been a cornerstone of child healthcare since PNG’s independence in 1975, is published every five years and is widely used from remote aid posts to busy provincial hospitals.
Written by paediatricians and medical specialists with extensive local knowledge, the guide provides practical, evidence-based advice for diagnosing and treating common childhood illnesses, managing emergencies, and promoting preventive care.
As part of Australia’s long-standing commitment to improving health outcomes in PNG, 30,000 copies of the new edition have been printed and will be distributed nationwide.
Dr. James Amini, President of the PSPNG, highlighted the book’s vital role in saving lives.
“Every child in Papua New Guinea has the right to healthcare, yet reaching them across rural and peri-urban communities remains a great challenge,” Dr. Amini said.
“Most child deaths are preventable with early diagnosis and simple treatments. The Standard Treatment Book, now in its 11th edition, equips health workers with the guidance they need to deliver these life-saving interventions.”
