The Ministry of Health and Services has announced that among the 552 reported cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) this year, the youngest individual confirmed to have contracted the virus is less than one year old. This information was presented by Dr. Rachael Devi, Head of Family Health under the Ministry, during the launch of an Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) Immunisation Coverage Survey Training at the Fiji National University (FNU) Campus in Tamavua.
Dr. Devi emphasized that the primary mode of transmission in this case was from mother to child. She highlighted the significance of conducting more vaccination surveys, noting that immunization has played a crucial role in reducing the number of deaths among young children. While she acknowledged the risks, Dr. Devi pointed out that there is an increasing likelihood of babies being born HIV negative.
“We’ve had many mothers who were HIV positive deliver healthy, negative babies,” she stated. Dr. Devi further explained a concept known as “you equal to you,” which indicates that individuals who are HIV positive and receive effective treatment maintain an undetectable viral load, thereby mitigating the risk of transmission to partners.
Dr. Devi urged expectant mothers to seek testing during their pregnancies. She detailed that the immunisation coverage training involves fieldwork and random household surveys in collaboration with the Bureau of Statistics, UNICEF, and the World Health Organisation (WHO). The training will last two weeks and will focus on enhancing coverage in communities.
“Mums, don’t be afraid; come in and get tested. There have been many healthy babies born to HIV-positive mothers. We are conducting widespread testing and need people to step forward for their results. We have lost patients due to ignorance and refusal to seek treatment. Get tested and know your status,” Dr. Devi implored.