# Enablers of Post-Validation Surveillance for Lymphatic Filariasis in the Pacific Islands: A Nominal Group Technique and Expert Elicitation

## TL;DR

This study identifies barriers and enablers for post-validation surveillance of lymphatic filariasis in Pacific Islands to prevent disease resurgence.

## Contribution

The study uses expert elicitation and Nominal Group Technique to systematically identify enablers and barriers for post-validation surveillance in the Pacific Islands.

## Key findings

- Participants identified 70 challenges consolidated into ten thematic domains affecting post-validation surveillance.
- Key barriers include limited leadership understanding, inconsistent support, and lack of field-ready diagnostics.
- Enablers include embedding surveillance in health services and leveraging community networks.

## Abstract

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a mosquito-borne neglected tropical disease that causes substantial morbidity and social exclusion. Global efforts under the World Health Organization’s Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis have markedly reduced prevalence, and several Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs) have achieved elimination of the disease as a public health problem. However, post-validation surveillance (PVS), essential for detecting resurgence and enabling early response, has rarely been implemented, and barriers to its delivery remain poorly understood. We used two complementary qualitative approaches to identify systemic barriers and enablers to LF PVS in PICTs. First, we conducted a Nominal Group Technique followed by a structured expert elicitation involving program managers and technical staff. Data were analysed thematically and triangulated across sources. Participants identified 70 challenges which were consolidated into ten thematic domains. Pertinent barriers relate to limited leadership understanding of LF and surveillance options, inconsistent technical and financial support, and a lack of context-appropriate operational guidance. Additional challenges included limited field-ready diagnostics, procurement delays, the absence of formal mandates, and low community engagement. Enablers included embedding PVS within existing health services, leveraging trusted community networks, strengthening regional frameworks, and co-developing practical tools with countries. Sustaining LF elimination in the Pacific will require political commitment, regional collaboration, and integrated, programmatic approaches informed by recent PVS experience.