A teenager living on the streets of a Fijian town has recently been identified as one of the new HIV cases in the country. The 19-year-old was directed to Empower Pacific for counselling by a doctor from a divisional hospital. Many other new HIV cases, predominantly among youths living on the streets, have also been referred to this NGO, which specializes in counselling and social support services.
The majority of these new cases contracted the virus primarily through the sharing of needles when using crystal methamphetamine, often referred to as “ice” or “white,” in a practice known as “bluetoothing.” This referral process is part of a long-term collaboration between the Ministry of Health & Medical Services and Empower Pacific.
According to statistics released by the ministry, there were 552 new HIV cases reported between January and June this year. The Central Division accounted for 380 of these cases, with 151 in the Western Division, 19 in the Northern Division, and two in the Eastern Division. While sexual transmission remains the leading cause of HIV infection in Fiji, 85 of the reported cases were attributed to injectable drug use, representing 15 percent of the total.
Among those living with HIV, 50 are aged between 15 and 19, 137 are between 25 and 29, and an additional 128 fall within the same age bracket. The Ministry notes that the most recent HIV cases are mostly found in individuals under 39, although older individuals are also affected.
Many individuals only seek hospital care after experiencing HIV symptoms, often hesitant to undergo blood tests. Keli Koroi, the manager of Empower Pacific’s Fiji Facility Support Program, explained that the organization provides pre-test counselling to help individuals understand the necessity of blood tests, and if they consent, the tests are conducted. If results are positive, patients are then referred for further counselling.
In 2022, Empower Pacific received referrals for 37 confirmed HIV cases, primarily from CWM Hospital, with additional referrals from other hospitals. The number of referrals from CWM Hospital increased to 47 from January to July this year.
While the number of referrals may appear low, providing pre-test counselling and support can significantly impact the individuals and their families and aid in further HIV transmission prevention efforts. Mr. Koroi noted that many of the new patients are young males living on the streets who often only seek medical help when they exhibit severe symptoms.
Corroborating this point, he mentioned the case of a 19-year-old male who contracted HIV through injecting meth and is currently homeless, making follow-up care challenging.
So far this year, the ministry has recorded 13 deaths related to HIV, a decrease from the 82 reported last year. It encourages individuals to get tested and, if positive, to seek early treatment. Those who test negative are advised to continue practicing safe behaviors and avoid risky activities such as bluetoothing and chemsex, which involves sexual activities while under the influence of drugs.
For individuals struggling with substance abuse and seeking professional help regarding STI/HIV/AIDS, Empower Pacific offers a 24/7 toll-free counselling helpline at 5626, supported by various local and international organizations.