The global trend of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections is declining; however, the situation in Fiji is markedly different. This was underlined by the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, during a Parliament session on Wednesday.
Responding to a query from Opposition MP Virendra Lal regarding the government’s actions to address the rising HIV cases, Dr. Lalabalavu emphasized the urgency of tackling drug-related offenses and the spike in HIV rates among young people. He noted that Fiji is projected to be the second fastest-growing nation for HIV cases in the Asia Pacific, trailing only the Philippines.
Dr. Lalabalavu pointed out that the government has recognized the increasing prevalence of injectable drug use as a critical issue in Fiji. The Ministry of Health and Medical Services reported last month that there were 552 new HIV cases recorded from January to June this year, with 15 percent of these being injectable drug users. This marks an unprecedented milestone for the nation.
In response to these challenges, the ministry is enhancing its HIV strategies specifically related to drug use. Efforts are underway to improve testing and treatment services for HIV throughout Fiji in a more decentralized manner. The government has also earmarked $200,000 in this financial year to bolster the country’s HIV response initiatives.