A significant and alarming trend has emerged, showing a growing number of young individuals testing positive for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), particularly highlighted by a startling case at the Saint Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Suva last month. A total of 57 young patients were found to be HIV-positive, which underscored the critical need for urgent action in response to this emerging public health crisis. Disturbingly, one of those affected was just 14 years old.
Selina Kuruleca, the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Justice, shared these disheartening statistics during a presentation focused on the rampant drug abuse in schools and the need for enhanced educational and legal interventions. She noted that approximately 1.7 percent of 3,519 young Fijians were involved in drug-related incidents as of September, raising concerns about the potential for even greater unreported cases.
Recent research from the Substance Abuse Advisory Council within the Ministry of Education revealed that there were 3,627 drug-related incidents in Fijian schools in 2023, split between 1,578 in primary schools and 2,049 in secondary schools—a staggering 40 percent increase in drug cases since 2018. A dangerous behavior known as “blue-toothing,” in which young people share needles, poses a severe risk of HIV transmission and adds to the complexity of the public health challenge.
Kuruleca emphasized the profound consequences of the drug epidemic not just on health, but also on families and communities. Alarmingly, there are reports of parents using their children to distribute drugs, and women being coerced into prostitution to finance drug habits.
The call for action was echoed by Kalesi Volatabu, founder of Drug Free World Fiji, who condemned the existing “culture of bystanders” that has allowed the drug issue to escalate. She urged the community to intervene rather than remain passive and highlighted the grave risk posed by drug use among children.
These alarming trends present a substantial challenge for Fiji, but they also call for a collaborative community response. The heightened awareness of the crisis can lead to proactive measures, education, and resources aimed at reversing this trend. By fostering a supportive environment that encourages healthy choices, Fiji can work toward a brighter future for its youth.
Overall, in light of the rising HIV cases associated with drug abuse, the urgency for immediate intervention cannot be overstated. It is a matter that goes beyond public health, affecting the very fabric of families and communities in Fiji, and demands prompt, compassionate action to safeguard the next generation.
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