Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has raised alarms regarding the rapid rise of human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) in Fiji, urging citizens to approach the situation with the utmost seriousness. His comments came after the Minister of Health, Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, officially declared a national outbreak following a concerning increase in HIV cases reported from January to September 2024, with a total of 1,093 new cases documented.

The Ministry of Health identified this increase as a significant public health concern, asserting that Fiji has met the criteria for an outbreak. The statistics reveal that the majority of new infections are concentrated in the Central Division, with 766 cases reported, followed by the Western Division at 292 cases, the Northern Division with 33, and the Eastern Division at 2 cases. Disturbingly, the age group most affected is between 20 to 29 years, accounting for over 50% of the cases.

Among the newly reported individuals, men make up a significant portion, with 784 cases. Furthermore, approximately 90.6% of these new infections involve individuals of iTaukei descent, while Fijians of Indian descent account for 8.2%. Although efforts to link individuals to care are ongoing, only 52% of the new cases have been successfully connected to health services, amplifying the urgency for testing and treatment.

Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized that among those linked to care, a considerable number have reported injecting drug use and sexual transmission as primary modes of transmission. The health ministry conducted an impressive 45,677 lab-based HIV screenings and an additional 5,173 point-of-care tests to enhance detection and care.

The government is responding with the HIV Surge Strategy 2024-2027, aimed at establishing a robust framework for addressing the rising cases through prevention, diagnostics, treatment, and support. Dr. Lalabalavu called upon every Fijian to be proactive and informed, as cooperation among communities is essential to tackling this public health crisis effectively.

Despite the grim statistics of HIV-related deaths totaling 115 between January and September 2024 and the concerns over rising infection rates, there remains hope. The introduction of comprehensive health strategies coupled with community engagement holds the potential to facilitate significant progress in managing and preventing HIV in Fiji.

In summary, the seriousness surrounding Fiji’s HIV outbreak calls for immediate action and collective efforts from all sectors of society. With increased awareness and community involvement, it is possible to reverse these trends and improve health outcomes for those affected by HIV in Fiji, fostering a more supportive environment for individuals seeking testing and treatment.