Fiji’s Ministry of Health is increasing its HIV testing initiatives in response to an anticipated rise in cases. In a recent announcement, the health ministry reported 552 new HIV cases between January and June of this year, which marks a 33 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Dr. Rachel Devi, head of Family Health, expressed concern about the potential pressure this surge could place on health resources and facilities if not adequately addressed. She highlighted the ministry’s efforts to expand testing by decentralizing services beyond public health facilities and collaborating with private general practitioners and non-governmental organizations.
Dr. Devi stated, “We are preparing for this by increasing our testing and decentralizing services across the nation. We are partnering with NGOs and other organizations to enhance their capacities, enabling them to provide appropriate care similar to a Specialist Outpatient Department in various locations.”
She emphasized the importance of collaboration with civil society organizations for on-site testing and community outreach. The ministry has been training these organizations in point-of-care testing, allowing them to conduct tests in their facilities and reach out to the community.
Dr. Devi encouraged widespread testing, stressing, “To see a decline in cases, we must first identify those affected. We urge everyone, especially young people, to know their status. If negative, it’s crucial to maintain that status; if positive, it’s important to seek treatment as HIV is manageable, and effective medications are available.”