The Ministry of Health is working to enhance HIV diagnostics nationwide. Doctor Rachel Devi, the Head of Family Health, confirmed this initiative to Fiji One News, pointing to concerning statistics that show 552 new HIV cases identified between January and June of this year.
The data indicates that new infections have occurred across all divisions of Fiji, with the Central division reporting 380 new cases, the Western division 151 new cases, the Northern division 19 new cases, and the Eastern division 2 new cases. This represents a 33% increase in new HIV cases in the first half of 2024 compared to the total recorded in 2023.
Dr. Devi emphasized the ministry’s commitment to improving diagnostic capabilities through enhanced screening and testing, as well as facilitating patient care. She stated that one of the crucial aspects of diagnostics is ensuring adequate treatment and care for patients.
While the rising number of new cases is alarming, the ministry expects this trend to continue as it strengthens its nationwide screening efforts. According to the Ministry of Health, 73% of the new cases involve individuals under 39 years old, with 137 cases (24.8%) in the 20 to 24 age group, 128 cases (23%) in the 25 to 29 age group, and 50 new cases (9%) among those aged 15 to 19.