Fiji has reported over 1,078 new HIV cases from 2019 to the present, with a significant increase of 390 percent among males. This alarming trend was discussed by outgoing Fiji Medical Association president Dr. Basharat Munshi during the association’s recent conference at the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa.
In 2019, there were 120 recorded cases, consisting of 59 males, 48 females, and 13 transgender individuals. The numbers increased steadily each year, with 147 cases in 2020 (84 males, 58 females, and 5 transgender), 151 cases in 2021 (79 males, 71 females, and 1 transgender), 245 cases in 2022 (150 males, 88 females, and 7 transgender), and reaching 415 cases in 2023 (289 males, 122 females, and 4 transgender).
Dr. Munshi noted the age demographics of new cases: 24% were aged 20-24, 20% were 25-29, and 26% were in the 30-39 age group. Additionally, 8% of those infected were adolescents, while 2% were under the age of 10.
He attributed the rise in HIV cases to behaviors such as “blue-toothing” and “chem-sex.” Dr. Munshi emphasized the need to tackle underlying issues like drug abuse by enhancing education, improving access to sexual health clinics, and promoting moral upbringing.
During the Fiji Medical Association’s Annual General Meeting over the weekend, new officers were elected for the 2024-2026 term. The new president is Dr. Alipate Vakamocea, with Dr. Ronald Kumar serving as vice president, Dr. Miriama Tukana as secretary, and Dr. Ahmed Shakeel Shariff as treasurer. The executive council also includes Dr. William May, Dr. Basharat Munshi, Dr. Sailosi Ratumaitavuki, Dr. Myrielle Allen, Dr. Pritisheel Kirti, and Dr. Sudiksha Singh.