Tuvalu Parliament passes Public Health Act 2026, modernizing century-old public health legislation

Funafuti, Tuvalu, 29 October 2026  

Tuvalu reached a milestone in strengthening public health protection with the Parliament's passage of the Public Health Act 2026, replacing legislation first enacted 100 years ago.  

The new law provides an updated framework for preventing, managing and responding to public health risks from the community level through to national emergencies, public health emergencies of international concern, and pandemics.  

It also includes flexible and updated approaches to communicable disease management, planning, standard setting, collection and use of health information, and coordinating with partners.  

"Tuvalu's health needs have changed significantly over the past century, and our laws must evolve to meet these challenges with the right attention and care," said Honourable Tuafafa Latasi, Minister for Health and Social Welfare. "The Public Health Act 2026 gives us a stronger foundation to protect our communities. This is an important moment for all Tuvaluans." 

Modernizing public health legislation after 100 years  

Tuvalu's previous Public Health Act was first enacted in 1926 and was amended several times over the decades.  

However, as the country's health needs evolved, a more comprehensive update became necessary.  

For people across Tuvalu, the updated legislation aims to support safer and healthier communities by ensuring different level of health risks have identified pathways for escalation and response, with clear powers and responsibilities to support decision-making.   

It also has provisions to support the involvement of different sectors. Ultimately the new law will support Tuvalu meet its obligations under the International Health Regulations.  

"For Pacific island countries like Tuvalu, having a modern legal framework is essential to ensuring that health systems are able to adequately respond to the health risks communities face today," said Dr Mark Jacobs, WHO Representative to the South Pacific and Director of Pacific Technical Support. "WHO congratulates the Government of Tuvalu on this important achievement and remains committed to supporting the country as it works to translate the new legislation into stronger public health protection for its people."  

Media contacts 

Shereen Ayub, Pacific External Relations and Communications Consultant, WHO, ayubs@who.int   

Dr Nancy Wong, Pacific External Relations and Communications Officer, WHO, nwong@who.int 

Dr Christine Lifuka Chief Public Health Medical Officer, Tuvalu Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, christinelifukaalopua@gmail.com