The lower usage of condoms during sexual intercourse is significantly contributing to the recent rise in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases in Fiji. Additionally, the sharing of unsterilized needles among injecting drug users is posing another serious threat.
The primary reasons for this situation include the relatively low condom usage in Fiji and insufficient awareness surrounding HIV prevention, testing, and treatment. Findings from Fiji’s first Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) conducted in 2021 indicated that only 30 percent of women aged 15-24 and 26 percent of men in the same age group were aware of HIV prevention methods.
UNAIDS Pacific Office Country Director Renata Ram noted that the survey highlighted minimal condom usage among individuals with multiple sexual partners. The results revealed that just 24 percent of men and nine percent of women aged 15-49 reported using a condom during their last sexual encounter.
“The MICS further unveiled concerning health-seeking behaviors and limited knowledge of HIV status among individuals in Fiji,” Ram stated. “Only seven percent of women and four percent of men aged 15-49 had undergone HIV testing in the past year and were aware of their test results.”
UNAIDS emphasizes its strategic and advocacy role in supporting the HIV response in Fiji. In a recent development, Ms. Ram announced that UNAIDS has received donor funds from Australia under the Indo-Pacific Partnership, which recognizes Fiji as a priority focus.
A total of $2.6 million in Australian aid has been designated to enhance the HIV response in Fiji over the next four years, in addition to other financial support that Fiji receives from Australia for managing HIV responses and implementing grants from the Global Fund.
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