The low rate of condom use during sexual activity is a significant factor contributing to the recent rise in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) cases in Fiji. Additionally, another emerging concern is the practice of sharing unsterilized needles among individuals who use inject drugs.
The findings from Fiji’s first Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) in 2021 revealed 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 indicated minimal condom use among individuals with multiple sexual partners, reporting that just 24 percent of men and 9 percent of women between the ages of 15 and 49 used a condom during their last sexual encounter.
“The MICS also highlighted poor health-seeking behaviors and a lack of knowledge regarding HIV status among individuals in Fiji,” Ms. Ram stated. “Only seven percent of women and four percent of men in the 15-49 age group underwent HIV testing in the past year and were aware of their results.”
UNAIDS is playing a vital role in advocating for a robust HIV response in Fiji. Ms. Ram explained that community engagement is central to their efforts, and noted that UNAIDS has secured donor funding from Australia through the Indo-Pacific Partnership, which has prioritized Fiji for this collaboration.
“A total of $2.6 million in Australian aid has been earmarked to bolster the HIV response in Fiji over the next four years, in addition to other financial support received from Australia and grants from the Global Fund,” she revealed.
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