The Ministry of Health has raised alarms over a rising number of HIV cases among children in Fiji, with four deaths recorded this year alone. Dr. Miriama Thaggard, a Pediatric Consultant at Labasa Hospital, underscored the issue during the Fiji Medical Association Mini Central Conference, highlighting the grave situation where young patients are often admitted for conditions like pneumonia and malnutrition, only to later find out they are HIV-positive.
“In one case, a child quickly deteriorated and required ICU support; it was suspected to be HIV, and the subsequent test confirmed the diagnosis,” Dr. Thaggard explained. So far in 2025, there have been 19 new pediatric HIV cases reported, a worrying trend that mirrors earlier statistics from 2024, where a significant proportion of diagnoses also stemmed from mother-to-child transmission.
The Ministry of Health advocates for early testing, proactive communication with medical professionals, and comprehensive support for families managing HIV. Previous comments from Dr. Rachael Devi, Head of Family Health, emphasize the importance of early testing for expectant mothers. She noted that with proper treatment, many children can be born HIV-negative, even if their mothers are virus carriers. Referring to the “you equal to you” concept, Dr. Devi explained that individuals receiving adequate treatment can achieve undetectable viral loads, drastically reducing transmission risks.
While the statistics are alarming, there’s hope on the horizon. Community involvement in preventive measures, alongside governmental efforts to enhance testing and treatment availability, can lead to better health outcomes for vulnerable groups, including children. The message is clear: with awareness and early intervention, Fiji can aspire to reduce HIV transmission rates, ultimately improving the futures of many young lives.
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