The Ministry of Health is actively addressing the urgent shortage of HIV medications in the country. Following an interview with the media, the ministry has announced that it is closely monitoring the distribution of essential treatments and collaborating with global partners to restore availability.
The ministry is currently overseeing the distribution of crucial antiretroviral (ARV) medications, which are fundamental for the treatment of people living with HIV. Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), which combines these drugs, plays a significant role in preventing the HIV virus from replicating and damaging CD4 cells—an important part of the immune system.
Efforts to procure additional supplies are being facilitated through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with a signed agreement already in place with suppliers. The ministry is hopeful that new shipments will arrive by the end of this month, while acknowledging the serious nature of the current shortage. In the meantime, individuals living with HIV are receiving alternative medication regimens to cover a one-month period.
The shortage comes at a time when Fiji is confronting a notable HIV challenge, especially within its indigenous iTaukei population, which represents 89 percent of those living with HIV in the country. Recent data highlighted during the Global AIDS Monitoring and HIV Estimates Workshop indicates that while iTaukei individuals frequently seek testing in public healthcare facilities, Fijians of Indian descent and other ethnic groups often prefer private testing. Consequently, their results may not be reported to public health authorities, complicating efforts to effectively monitor the epidemic.
This proactive approach by the Ministry of Health, along with international collaboration, reflects a commitment to ensure that necessary treatments are available for those affected by HIV. With focused efforts to address the supply issues and enhance testing accessibility across different ethnic groups, there is hope for improved health outcomes and better management of HIV in Fiji moving forward.
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