The Health Ministry is expressing concern regarding the hesitation among parents to seek HIV testing for their children, particularly when there is a risk involved. Despite the voluntary nature of testing, officials caution that the current framework may not sufficiently protect children, especially those too young to articulate their health needs. This year alone has seen the confirmation of 19 new HIV cases among children.
Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa pointed to stigma as a significant barrier preventing many families from accessing free testing and treatment services. He emphasized the importance of knowing one’s HIV status, stating, “Once you know your status, you can adjust your behavior and understand the condition better, making informed decisions to stay healthy and avoid risky paths.”
Efforts are underway to expand testing facilities and counseling services, but the uptake of such services remains troublingly low. Similar discussions have previously highlighted that a significant portion of individuals do not return for their HIV test results, which puts them at an increased risk of transmitting the virus.
Health officials have also noted that among the 552 reported HIV cases this year, there have been instances of mother-to-child transmission, with the youngest infected individual being under one year old. This underscores the necessity for proactive testing, particularly for expectant mothers.
There is hope as community involvement and improved access to treatment can empower individuals living with HIV to lead fulfilling lives. Increased awareness and open conversations about HIV can foster a supportive environment, encouraging more families to seek testing and treatment without fear. By uniting efforts to disseminate information and promote health education, Fiji has the potential to combat the stigma surrounding HIV and build a healthier future for all.
Leave a comment