Seventeen new cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) were reported in the North during the first half of the year, as per the Ministry of Health. Advocate and survivor Temo Sasau has indicated that this number is expected to rise in the coming months. He stated, “If we promote testing, by December we will see a similar prevalence as Viti Levu.”
Mr. Sasau noted that the primary mode of HIV transmission in the North is through injecting drugs. He highlighted the unexpected nature of this trend, saying it presents a “different playing field.” Additionally, he pointed out that some individuals are receiving their diagnoses at a late stage of the virus.
“There was no other option but for them to get the test,” he remarked. He urged the Government to involve various stakeholders and partners in addressing the situation.
“There are people living with HIV who are open about their status. We possess insights that even some doctors and scientists may not have or completely understand,” he added. Mr. Sasau suggested that the recent spike in cases could also be attributed to increased awareness regarding testing for HIV.