The global trend in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases is declining, yet Fiji is experiencing a concerning rise in infections. This issue was brought to light by Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu during a session in Parliament on Wednesday.
Opposition MP Virendra Lal questioned Dr. Lalabalavu about the ministry’s approach to addressing the increasing HIV cases in Fiji. He called for specific details on the government’s measures to combat the rise in drug-related crimes and the corresponding spike in HIV among young people.
Dr. Lalabalavu reported that Fiji is on track to become the second fastest-growing nation for HIV infections in the Asia Pacific region, surpassed only by the Philippines. He pointed out that injectable drug use has emerged as a critical issue in Fiji.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services disclosed last month that there were 552 HIV cases reported between January and June. Of these, 15 percent involved injectable drug users, marking a troubling record for the nation.
In response to these challenges, Dr. Lalabalavu stated that the ministry is working to enhance its HIV response regarding drug use. He noted that there are ongoing efforts to improve HIV testing and treatment services throughout Fiji in a more decentralized approach. The government has also allocated $200,000 in the current financial year specifically to strengthen the HIV response.