There have been 57 new youth admissions at St. Giles Hospital in Suva, all of whom have tested positive for HIV, including a 14-year-old. This alarming statistic was brought to light by Permanent Secretary for Justice, Selina Kuruleca, during the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions Annual Conference held in Sigatoka.
Kuruleca pointed out that the increase in cases can be attributed to a dangerous trend known as ‘bluetoothing’ among students. This practice involves sharing needles, leading to the unwitting transmission of HIV through contaminated blood. The rise in young addicts poses a significant threat to public health, as Kuruleca stressed the real impact behind the statistics.
As of September this year, data reveals that 1.7 percent of Fiji’s student population, totaling 3,519 individuals, have encountered drug-related incidents. While this percentage may seem small, Kuruleca emphasized that even one young life lost to substance abuse is too many.
She raised concerns about the possibility of unreported cases, suggesting that the real numbers could be much higher. A study conducted by the Substance Abuse Advisory Council in 2022 revealed a troubling trend in drug abuse within schools, with 3,627 documented cases reported in 2023 alone—a 40 percent increase since 2018. This includes 1,578 cases from primary schools and 2,049 from secondary schools.
While the statistics are concerning, it is essential to recognize the potential for positive change. With increased awareness and ongoing evaluations, there are opportunities for educational and preventive measures to be implemented, aimed at reducing drug abuse and its associated risks among youth. Collaborations among schools, communities, and health services could play a critical role in protecting young people from the dangers of substance abuse and reducing the spread of HIV.
This situation calls for urgent attention and proactive strategies to safeguard the health and well-being of Fiji’s youth.
Leave a comment