In early February 2018,  Tropical Cyclone Gita, a Category 4 storm with winds of more than 275 kilometres per hour, ravaged the Pacific.

As the country most affected by the cyclone, Tonga was the focus of WHO's support. From 12 to 13 February, the storm ravaged the main island of Tongatapu and nearby 'Eua. The two islands are home to three-quarters of the country's 107 000 people.

The storm caused widespread flooding and damaged some 1600 houses. All seven community health centres on Tongatapu lost electricity and most lost access to safe water; connections which have since largely been restored.

WHO also worked in Samoa with the Ministry of Health and delivered emergency supplies, including rapid diagnostic tests, vector control equipment and enough water purification tablets to provide 2500 families safe drinking water for 14 days.