Fiji declares HIV outbreak
The Minister for Health & Medical Services has declared an HIV outbreak in Fiji.
Following 1093 new HIV cases recorded between January and September last year, Fiji met the definition for an outbreak of HIV nationally.
The 52 percent of the 1093 new cases reported are linked to care, among which 223 cases are mainly caused by Injecting Drug Use (IDU), 202 transmitted by sexual transmission, while an additional 129 cases are currently under evaluation to determine their primary transmission routes.
Alarmingly, those who inject drugs and share used needles are 29 times more likely to contract HIV.
According to the Ministry, reported cases have increased nine-fold over the last five years.
To address this, the Ministry will introduce targeted interventions to reduce new cases among injecting drug users, including harm reduction programs and greater accessibility to prevention services.
Minister Lalabalavu said the 90-Day Plan, currently in execution, was designed to fast-track immediate, high-impact interventions in the battle against HIV, which was believed to be spurred by the current illicit drug epidemic in the country.
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“This dual approach reflects immediate containment through the Outbreak Response Plan and long-term system strengthening through the Surge Strategy.”
“It is essential to address the current crisis and build resilience against future challenges.”
Minister Lalabalavu emphasized the urgency of collective action in addressing the rising HIV cases in Fiji.
“The Ministry of Health cannot do this alone. Communities, civil society, faith-based organizations, private sector partners, and international allies must join us in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and ensuring everyone affected by HIV receives the care and support they need.”
“This is not only a health issue but can potentially become an economic and developmental issue if we don’t act now.”