Fiji has reported over 1,078 new HIV cases since 2019, with a significant increase of 390 percent primarily affecting males. This alarming trend was brought to light by outgoing Fiji Medical Association (FMA) president Dr. Basharat Munshi during a conference at the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa over the weekend.
In 2019, the country had 120 reported cases—59 males, 48 females, and 13 transgender individuals. The figures rose in the following years: 147 cases in 2020 (84 males, 58 females, 5 transgender), 151 cases in 2021 (79 males, 71 females, 1 transgender), 245 cases in 2022 (150 males, 88 females, 7 transgender), and 415 cases in 2023 (289 males, 122 females, 4 transgender).
Dr. Munshi noted that age distribution among new cases showed 24% were aged 20-24, 20% were 25-29, and 26% fell into the 30-39 category. Additionally, 8% of cases were adolescents, and 2% involved children under 10.
The increase in HIV cases has been attributed to factors such as ‘blue-toothing’ and ‘chem-sex.’ Dr. Munshi emphasized the need to tackle contributing issues like drug abuse through education, improved access to sexual health clinics, and a stronger focus on moral upbringing.
During the FMA’s annual general meeting, new officers were elected for the 2024-2026 term. The incoming leadership includes Dr. Alipate Vakamocea as president, Dr. Ronald Kumar as vice president, Dr. Miriama Tukana as secretary, and Dr. Ahmed Shakeel Shariff as treasurer. The executive council also includes Dr. William May, Dr. Basharat Munshi, Dr. Sailosi Ratumaitavuki, Dr. Myrielle Allen, Dr. Pritisheel Kirti, and Dr. Sudiksha Singh.