The Health Ministry has reported 552 new HIV cases in Fiji from January to June 2024, marking a 33 percent increase compared to the total number from the previous year.
Cases have surged across all divisions of Fiji, with the Central division recording 380 new cases, the Western division 151, the Northern division 19, and the Eastern division 2.
According to the ministry, 73 percent of the new cases involved individuals under the age of 39. Specifically, 137 cases (24.8 percent) were among those aged 20 to 24, 128 cases (23 percent) in the 25 to 29 age group, and 50 cases (9 percent) in the 15 to 19 age range.
The ministry pointed out that sexual transmission remains the primary mode of HIV spread in Fiji. However, 15 percent, or 85 of the new cases, were identified in individuals who considered themselves injectable drug users. This increase is particularly concerning as it reflects a notable rise in reported cases among this group compared to earlier years.
While the rise in HIV cases is alarming, the ministry is anticipating further increases as it plans to enhance nation-wide screening, testing, and enrollment into care programs.