Fiji has reported over 1,078 new HIV cases since 2019, with a significant increase among males, which has surged by 390 percent. This alarming trend was brought to light by Dr. Basharat Munshi, the outgoing president of the Fiji Medical Association, during a recent conference at the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa.
In recent years, the annual breakdown of cases shows an increasing trend: in 2019, there were 120 cases (59 male, 48 female, 13 transgender); in 2020, 147 cases (84 male, 58 female, 5 transgender); in 2021, 151 cases (79 male, 71 female, 1 transgender); in 2022, 245 cases (150 male, 88 female, 7 transgender); and in 2023, 415 cases (289 male, 122 female, 4 transgender).
The age demographics reveal that 24% of the new cases occurred in individuals aged 20-24, 20% in the 25-29 age group, and 26% in the 30-39 age group. Additionally, 8% of cases involved adolescents, while 2% were reported in children under 10 years old.
Dr. Munshi attributed the rise in HIV cases to factors such as “blue-toothing” and “chem-sex.” He emphasized the importance of addressing underlying issues like drug abuse by enhancing education, improving access to sexual health services, and focusing on moral upbringing to combat this growing public health concern.
During the FMA’s annual general meeting, new officials for the term 2024-2026 were elected. Dr. Alipate Vakamocea is the new president, with Dr. Ronald Kumar as vice president, Dr. Miriama Tukana as secretary, and Dr. Ahmed Shakeel Shariff as treasurer. The executive council includes Dr. William May, Dr. Basharat Munshi, Dr. Sailosi Ratumaitavuki, Dr. Myrielle Allen, Dr. Pritisheel Kirti, and Dr. Sudiksha Singh.