A troubling trend has surfaced, revealing a significant spike in young individuals testing positive for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Fiji. Recently, 57 youths were admitted to the Saint Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Suva, among whom was a 14-year-old child, raising serious concerns about the intersection of drug abuse and public health.
This alarming information was shared by Selina Kuruleca, the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Justice, during a recent presentation highlighting the extensive drug abuse problem in Fiji’s schools. Ms. Kuruleca noted that 1.7 percent of young Fijians had been involved in drug-related incidents, and the actual number may be even higher due to unreported cases.
The Substance Abuse Advisory Council reported a staggering 3,627 drug-related incidents across schools in the country this year, a 40 percent increase since 2018—1578 incidents occurred in primary schools and 2049 in secondary schools. A particularly concerning behavior among students, termed “blue-toothing,” involves sharing needles, which may facilitate the transmission of HIV through contaminated blood.
Moreover, Ms. Kuruleca emphasized the damaging effects of drugs on families, citing dangerous practices where parents exploit their children for drug sales and coercing women into prostitution to finance drug habits. She urged the community to be vigilant and supportive, ensuring that young Fijians receive the guidance they need to make informed choices.
The call for immediate intervention is crucial, as the HIV crisis extends beyond health to social and familial dimensions. Kalesi Volatabu, founder of Drug Free World Fiji, echoed this sentiment, urging an end to the “culture of bystanders” that permits such issues to proliferate. She appealed to the community to take action and speak up against drug use among children, highlighting that passive observations can no longer be tolerated.
The collective message from health officials and community leaders is clear: urgent action is needed to combat this multi-faceted crisis affecting Fiji’s youth. Emphasizing compassion and proactivity can pave the way to better health outcomes and support for future generations.
In summary, the alarming rise in HIV cases among young people in Fiji due to drug abuse is a pressing public health issue. The community must rally together, abandoning complacency and striving for a supportive environment that prioritizes the well-being of the youth. This moment presents an opportunity for change, with proactive measures and community engagement forming the foundation for a healthier future.
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