Dr. Rachel Devi, head of family health for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, highlighted the widespread presence of HIV across Fiji during her presentation at the ODPP Annual Conference in Sigatoka. She emphasized that no area in Fiji is immune to the disease, stating, “Every division and subdivision, every town that you talk about in Fiji has HIV.” While some regions, such as the Suva-Nausori corridor, face more significant challenges, the maritime zones also report cases of HIV.
In the first half of 2024, Fiji saw 552 new HIV cases, with 540 occurring among adults and 12 among children. The Central Division reported approximately 380 cases, marking a concerning 69 percent increase compared to 2023. The Western Division reported 151 new cases, while the Northern Division and Eastern Division each recorded 19 and 2 new cases, respectively.
Despite the lack of a cure for HIV, Dr. Devi noted that with effective prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care—including for opportunistic infections—the disease has transformed into a manageable chronic health condition.
This ongoing health challenge underscores the importance of awareness and proactive healthcare strategies to manage and control HIV in Fiji. By fostering education and increasing access to healthcare services, there is potential for significant progress in combating HIV and ensuring the well-being of affected individuals in the community.
In summary, while HIV remains a pressing issue across Fiji, the implications of treatment advancements offer hope for improved management and care for those living with the virus.
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