In response to the increasing number of drug-related incidents in Fiji, the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has raised serious concerns regarding the recent findings of used needles and syringes in recycling bins.
Amitesh Deo, the founder of PRF, highlighted the dangers these practices pose to the health and safety of both recycling workers and the general public. He expressed grave alarm over the improper disposal of hazardous materials such as needles and syringes, warning that such negligence endangers the lives of recycling staff who might inadvertently come into contact with potentially infected items.
The PRF has urged that all medical waste, particularly needles and syringes, must be discarded correctly and securely. They emphasized that their recycling programs are not designed to safely handle hazardous materials, which can lead to serious injuries and other risks.
To mitigate the dangers associated with improper waste disposal, the foundation is calling for enhanced vigilance and cooperation from all community sectors.
Additionally, to combat the rising cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) linked to behaviors like needle sharing and group sex, the Ministry of Health is considering the introduction of syringe access legislation. Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu acknowledged the connection between the increase in HIV cases and the practice of ‘chemsex,’ which involves using drugs and sharing needles. He voiced concerns about the escalating transmission rates of HIV and underscored the necessity for new strategies to address this pressing issue.