A 19-year-old teenager living on the streets in Fiji has recently been diagnosed as one of the new HIV cases in the country. He was referred to Empower Pacific for counselling by a doctor at a divisional hospital. This organization focuses on counselling and social support services for individuals facing similar challenges, particularly new HIV cases among youths living on the streets.
Many newly diagnosed individuals have contracted the virus primarily through injecting crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as ice or “bluetoothing,” a process where users draw blood after injecting the drug and then share it with others. Doctors have been making referrals to Empower Pacific through a long-term partnership established with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
Recent statistics revealed that from January to June of this year, there were 552 new HIV cases reported, with the Central Division accounting for the majority at 380 cases, followed by Western Division with 151, Northern Division with 19, and Eastern Division with two. Although sexual transmission remains the leading cause of HIV in Fiji, 15 percent of these new cases were linked to injectable drug use.
Among the new cases, there are 50 individuals aged between 15 and 19, 137 between 25 and 29, and 128 between 30 and 39. Most of the new HIV cases are occurring in people under 39, while cases in those over 40 are also noted. Many individuals only seek hospital treatment after experiencing severe symptoms, often reluctant to undergo blood tests.
Keli Koroi, the program manager at Empower Pacific, explained that they conduct pre-test counselling to help patients understand the importance of blood testing. If a test result is positive, patients are referred for further counselling. In 2022, 37 cases were referred for counselling, and that number has increased in 2023, with 47 referrals from CWM Hospital alone from January to July.
Koroi emphasized the importance of providing support to those diagnosed, especially young individuals using drugs. Many clients mistakenly believe they contracted HIV exclusively through sexual intercourse without recognizing the role of needle sharing. They often visit hospitals only when they begin to exhibit symptoms.
The youngest recent case Koroi supported was also a 19-year-old male, whose circumstances have made follow-up challenging due to his transient lifestyle. The Ministry of Health reported 13 deaths from HIV-related illnesses from January to June, a decrease from 82 last year.
Authorities encourage the public to get tested for HIV and to take proactive health measures. Those who test positive are urged to seek treatment early, while those who test negative are advised to continue practicing safe behaviors and avoid risky activities associated with drug use.
Empower Pacific offers a 24/7 toll-free helpline for individuals needing support with substance abuse and living with HIV/AIDS, accessible through 5626. The helpline receives backing from the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, along with contributions from local organizations.