The global trend for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases is on the decline, but the situation in Fiji is notably different. Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, addressed this issue in Parliament on Wednesday.
During the session, Opposition MP Virendra Lal raised concerns about the increase in HIV cases in Fiji, asking Dr. Lalabalavu about the ministry’s strategies to address the rising number of drug-related offenses and the growing instances of HIV among young people.
Dr. Lalabalavu pointed out that Fiji is poised to become the second fastest growing country for HIV infections in the Asia Pacific, trailing only the Philippines. He emphasized that the government has identified the increasing use of injectable drugs as a significant concern.
According to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Fiji reported 552 HIV cases between January and June this year. Of those, 15 percent were attributed to injectable drug users, marking a troubling first for the nation, Dr. Lalabalavu noted.
To tackle these challenges, the ministry is enhancing its HIV response, particularly in relation to drug use. Efforts are underway to improve HIV testing and treatment services throughout Fiji, with a focus on decentralization.
Additionally, the government has allocated $200,000 in the current financial year to bolster the HIV response initiatives.