The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has reported 552 new HIV cases in Fiji from January to June 2024. These cases span all divisions of the country, with 380 diagnosed in the Central division, 151 in the Western division, 19 in the Northern division, and 2 in the Eastern division.
The number of new cases in the first half of 2024 represents a 33 percent increase compared to the total recorded in 2023. Notably, 73 percent of the new cases are among individuals under the age of 39. The breakdown reveals that 137 cases (24.8 percent) are in the 20 to 24 age group, 128 cases (23 percent) in the 25 to 29 age group, and 50 cases (9 percent) in the 15 to 19 age group.
Although sexual transmission remains the primary mode of HIV spread in Fiji, an alarming 15 percent, or 85 of the new cases, are among individuals who identified as injectable drug users, marking a significant rise from previous years.
In light of the increasing number of cases, the Ministry expects the trend to continue as it strengthens national screening and testing initiatives while promoting enrollment in care. Between January and June 2024, there were 13 reported deaths among individuals living with HIV due to HIV-related illnesses, compared to 82 deaths in the same period in 2023.
The Ministry urges the public, especially young people, to avoid high-risk behaviors that increase the likelihood of HIV transmission, such as injectable drug use, needle sharing, unprotected sex with multiple partners, and involvement in chemsex activities.
Furthermore, the Ministry emphasizes that HIV is manageable with proper treatment, allowing individuals living with the virus to lead fulfilling lives. It encourages those at risk to get tested and know their HIV status, and those who test positive to seek timely treatment and adhere to their healthcare regimen.