The global trend of decreasing Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases contrasts sharply with the situation in Fiji. This was emphasized by Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, during a recent Parliament session.
Opposition MP Virendra Lal raised concerns about the rising number of HIV cases in the country and questioned the minister about the ministry’s initiatives to tackle the increase in drug-related offenses and the growing HIV rates among the youth.
Dr. Lalabalavu responded, noting that Fiji is on track to become the second fastest-growing nation for HIV cases in the Asia Pacific region, following only the Philippines. He pointed out that injectable drug use has emerged as a significant challenge in Fiji.
According to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, there were 552 reported HIV cases between January and June of this year. Dr. Lalabalavu mentioned that of the 525 cases recorded, 15 percent were linked to injectable drug users, marking a troubling first for the nation.
In light of these rising numbers, the ministry is taking steps to enhance its HIV response, particularly concerning drug use. Initiatives are in place to improve HIV testing and treatment services throughout Fiji in a more decentralized manner. Furthermore, the government has allocated $200,000 for this financial year to focus on addressing HIV-related issues.