A significant and alarming trend has emerged, with a notable increase in young individuals testing positive for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Fiji. Recently, 57 young patients admitted to the Saint Giles Psychiatric Hospital in Suva were identified as HIV-positive, drawing attention to the urgent need for action in addressing this public health crisis. Disturbingly, among those affected was a 14-year-old.
These troubling statistics were presented by Selina Kuruleca, the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Justice, during a presentation that highlighted the severe extent of drug abuse in schools and emphasized the immediate need for enhanced educational and legal interventions. Ms. Kuruleca noted that as of September, approximately 1.7% of young Fijians have been involved in drug-related incidents, raising concerns about unreported cases.
Data from the Substance Abuse Advisory Council revealed that Fijian schools recorded 3,627 drug-related incidents in 2023, including 1,578 in primary schools and 2,049 in secondary schools, reflecting a staggering 40% increase since 2018. One alarming behavior observed among students is known as “blue-toothing,” where needles are shared, unintentionally spreading HIV through infected blood.
The social ramifications of the drug epidemic extend beyond health concerns, impacting families and communities profoundly. In some instances, parents exploit their children for drug trafficking or coerce women into prostitution to fund their drug use. Ms. Kuruleca emphasized the importance of supporting young Fijians to make safe and positive choices.
With the noticeable surge in HIV cases associated with drug abuse, it is vital for stakeholders to take immediate and concerted action. This crisis not only threatens public health but also poses risks to family structures and community wellbeing.
Kalesi Volatabu, founder of Drug Free World Fiji, echoed this urgency, calling for a departure from the “culture of bystanders” that has allowed the drug problem to escalate unchecked. She urged the community to actively intervene when witnessing children using drugs, stressing that passivity can no longer be tolerated. Volatabu warned that the presented statistics may only reflect a fraction of the actual situation, as many incidents go unreported.
The call to action is clear: citizens must not remain silent, as the current drug crisis deeply affects all aspects of society. Encouraging collective vigilance and proactive measures offers a hopeful path toward combating this public health emergency and fostering a safer and healthier environment for Fiji’s younger generations.
By raising awareness and promoting community engagement, Fiji can work towards a future where its youth are protected from the dangers of drugs and HIV.
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