The Fiji Medical Association (FMA) is urging the government to swiftly declare an HIV outbreak due to a concerning surge in cases across the nation. FMA president Dr. Alipate Vakamocea expressed the Association’s alarm regarding the significant rise in HIV infections, which have increased by 241 percent from 2010 to 2023.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) reported over 550 new HIV cases within the first half of this year, marking a 33 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Dr. Vakamocea pointed out that the escalation in infections is compounded by shortcomings in testing, treatment, and prevention, which pose a serious public health risk.
He highlighted that while sexual transmission remains the primary mode of HIV spread in Fiji, there is a growing concern over transmission linked to injectable drug use, exacerbated by the country’s hard drug crisis.
The FMA is advocating for the Health Ministry to undertake three critical actions: officially declare an HIV outbreak, expand efforts in targeted testing, prevention, and treatment, and invest in improved data collection and reporting systems. They believe that recognizing the surge in cases as an outbreak will enable the mobilization of resources and enhance collaboration, drawing on lessons learned from the COVID-19 response.
In support of the Health Ministry, the FMA stressed the importance of a coordinated, evidence-based response to effectively address the HIV epidemic and prevent further loss of life. They called for immediate action to implement the Fiji HIV and Illicit Drug Surge Strategy for 2024-2026 as a pivotal step toward controlling the epidemic.
It is crucial for the Fijian government to address this alarming health crisis with the urgency it warrants. By collaborating with health organizations and investing in effective strategies, there is potential not only to control the epidemic but also to improve the overall health landscape in Fiji.
Summary: The Fijian Medical Association is urgently calling for the government to declare an HIV outbreak, citing a 241 percent rise in cases since 2010. The FMA urges the Health Ministry to improve testing and treatment efforts and highlights the importance of a coordinated response to combat the epidemic effectively.
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