Fiji’s health ministry is enhancing its HIV testing initiatives in anticipation of a rise in cases. The Ministry of Health and Medical Services disclosed last week that there have been 552 new HIV cases registered from January to June this year. This figure represents a 33 percent increase compared to the total for the entire year of 2023.
Dr. Rachel Devi, the head of Family Health, emphasized the potential strain this surge could place on the healthcare system if not adequately prepared. She stated, “We are preparing for this by increasing our testing and decentralizing our services. We are collaborating not just within public facilities but also with private general practitioners and non-governmental organizations that are currently engaged with some of our patients.”
Dr. Devi highlighted the significance of collaboration with civil society organizations to facilitate on-site testing and community outreach. “We provide training for their personnel, allowing them to conduct tests at their facilities. For instance, organizations like Medical Services Pacific and universities are trained in point-of-care testing, which they perform both in their clinics and through outreach efforts.”
She also stressed the importance of testing and knowing one’s HIV status. “We are encouraging everyone, especially young individuals, to get tested. If the result is negative, it’s crucial to maintain that status. If positive, it’s important to take action because HIV is manageable with medication; it is not a death sentence.”