HIV Crisis Among Youth: The Alarming Rise of ‘Bluetoothing’ in Fiji

St. Giles Hospital in Suva has reported a significant increase in youth admissions, with 57 new cases all testing positive for HIV, including a 14-year-old. This alarming trend was addressed by Permanent Secretary for Justice Selina Kuruleca during the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution Annual Conference held in Sigatoka. She pointed to the troubling practice known as “bluetoothing,” where students share needles, leading to the transmission of HIV through contaminated blood.

Kuruleca noted that this dangerous behavior has contributed to a public health crisis, particularly among young drug users. As of September this year, statistics reveal that 1.7 percent of Fiji’s students, which totals approximately 3,519 young individuals, have experienced drug-related incidents. While this percentage may seem small, Kuruleca emphasized the importance of each individual case, highlighting the need for intervention and support.

Moreover, a recent evaluation conducted by the Substance Abuse Advisory Council under the Ministry of Education showed that in 2023 alone, Fiji’s schools recorded 3,627 drug-related cases. This includes 1,578 incidents in primary schools and 2,049 in secondary schools, marking a 40 percent increase since 2018. These findings underscore a pressing need for community awareness and proactive measures to safeguard the health and future of Fiji’s youth.

For those concerned about this issue, this situation presents an opportunity for governments, schools, and communities to collaborate in creating preventive programs, raising awareness regarding safe practices, and providing support systems for at-risk youth. Positive initiatives could stem from this crisis, driving efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce drug abuse among young students.

The community’s response to these challenges can make a significant difference. By fostering a supportive environment and encouraging open conversations about drug use and health, we can work towards a future where fewer young people are affected by these issues.