The Health Ministry has reported 552 new HIV cases in Fiji from January to June 2024, marking a 33 percent increase compared to the total number from the previous year.
These new cases have emerged across all divisions in Fiji, with 380 diagnosed in the Central division, 151 in the Western division, 19 in the Northern division, and 2 in the Eastern division.
The ministry noted that 73 percent of the new cases were among individuals under 39 years old. Specifically, 137 cases (24.8 percent) were in the 20 to 24 age bracket, 128 cases (23 percent) were in the 25 to 29 age group, and 50 cases (9 percent) were among those aged 15 to 19.
While sexual transmission remains the main method of HIV spread in Fiji, 15 percent, or 85 of the 552 new cases, involved individuals who identified as injectable drug users. This trend has raised significant concerns, as it indicates a notable increase in new cases among this demographic compared to previous years.
Although the rise in new HIV cases is alarming, the ministry expects further increases as it enhances its nationwide screening, testing, and enrollment in care initiatives.