The Ministry of Health is taking steps to enhance HIV diagnostics throughout the country. This announcement was made by Dr. Rachel Devi, the Head of Family Health, who reported that between January and June of this year, 552 new HIV cases were documented.
These new cases emerged across all divisions of Fiji, with the Central division seeing the highest number at 380 cases, followed by 151 in the Western division, 19 in the North, and 2 in the East. The total of new cases for the first half of 2024 marks a 33% increase compared to the total cases from 2023.
Dr. Devi emphasized that enhancing diagnostic capabilities is critical, with a focus on improving nationwide screening, testing, and patient enrollment in care. She highlighted that a key element of diagnostics is providing proper treatment and care for patients.
While the rise in new cases is alarming, the ministry expects the numbers to climb further as it intensifies efforts in screening and testing. According to the Ministry of Health, a significant 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 cases (9%) in the 15 to 19 age group.