The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has reported 552 new HIV cases in Fiji from January to June 2024. These cases span across all divisions, with 380 diagnoses in the Central division, 151 in the Western division, 19 in the Northern division, and 2 in the Eastern division. This marks a 33 percent increase compared to the total number of cases recorded in 2023.
Most of the new cases, approximately 73 percent, involve individuals under the age of 39. Specifically, 137 cases (24.8 percent) are among the 20 to 24 age group, while 128 cases (23 percent) fall within the 25 to 29 age group. Additionally, 50 new cases (9 percent) are reported in the 15 to 19 age group.
Sexual transmission remains the primary mode of HIV spread in Fiji. However, 15 percent, or 85 of the new cases, were found among those who identified as injectable drug users, reflecting a notable rise in this demographic compared to previous years.
Despite the increase in new cases being concerning, the Ministry expects further rises as it enhances nationwide screening, testing, and care enrollment efforts. Between January and June 2024, there were also 13 deaths among individuals living with HIV due to related illnesses, a decrease compared to 82 deaths reported for the entire previous year.
The Ministry urges the public, especially young people, to avoid high-risk behaviors that could lead to HIV transmission, such as sharing needles, having unprotected sex with multiple partners, engaging in chemsex, and using injectable drugs.
It emphasizes that HIV is manageable with proper treatment, allowing those living with the virus to lead normal lives. The Ministry encourages individuals, especially those at higher risk, to get tested and know their HIV status, and advises those who test positive to seek treatment promptly and adhere to their healthcare plans.