The global situation regarding Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is showing signs of improvement; however, Fiji faces a different reality.
During a session in Parliament on Wednesday, Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu addressed concerns raised by Opposition Member of Parliament Virendra Lal about the increasing HIV cases in the country. Mr. Lal requested details on the specific measures being implemented to address the rise in drug-related offenses and the growing number of HIV cases among the youth.
Dr. Lalabalavu mentioned that Fiji is projected to become the second fastest-growing nation for HIV infections in the Asia-Pacific region, second only to the Philippines. He pointed out that the use of injectable drugs has emerged as a significant issue in Fiji.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services reported 552 HIV cases from January to June of this year, with 15 percent of those cases linked to injectable drug use. According to Dr. Lalabalavu, this marks an unprecedented record for Fiji.
In response to these challenges, the ministry is enhancing its approach to tackling HIV related to drug use. Efforts are underway to improve access to HIV testing and treatment services throughout the country in a more decentralized manner. The government has also allocated $200,000 in this financial year specifically to bolster the HIV response.