Back to the future: lethal respiratory pandemics in New Guinea

Lethal respiratory epidemics have torn through Papua New Guinea (PNG) since records began in the 19th century. Such historical epidemics were likely caused by influenza but often exacerbated by secondary bacterial pneumonias. Although PNG largely escaped the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic, major lethal waves were recorded in 1921, 1925, 1931 and 1964. As recently as 1969, thousands died in the PNG highlands from H3N2 influenza and subsequent pneumococcal pneumonias. This pre-independence crisis was met by a major deployment of the Australian Defence Force personnel and aircraft. Currently, vaccination efforts aided by the Australian Government are trying to cope with the COVID-19 crisis.

Automated summary

Lethal respiratory epidemics have plagued Papua New Guinea since the 19th century, largely attributed to influenza and often worsened by secondary bacterial pneumonias. In 1969, an outbreak of H3N2 influenza and subsequent pneumococcal pneumonias in PNG was met with a major deployment of the Australian Defence Force, highlighting the ongoing role of Australia in vaccination efforts in the country.