Fiji is facing a growing health crisis as the number of HIV cases increases rapidly. According to Assistant Health Minister Penioni Ravunawa, more than 3000 cases may be recorded by December. In comparison to last year’s record 1583 new cases, this represents a 13-fold increase.
The main drivers of this growth are unprotected sex, drug use, and mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy and childbirth. Sadly, many people with HIV in Fiji are not receiving treatment, with over half being lost to follow-up. The situation is further complicated by the emergence of injecting drug use as a major health threat.
Fiji’s response to HIV has been criticized for being 15 years behind what is needed. In contrast, other Pacific countries such as Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Solomon Islands are also grappling with the issue. PNG declared a national HIV crisis in June, while the Solomon Islands have increased their health budget to address the growing NCDs.
The situation highlights the need for international financing to bolster Pacific health systems. Federated States of Micronesia President Wesley Simina is calling for additional financial and technical support from the global community to help upgrade local health services and extend essential care to vulnerable populations.
Source: https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/574429/hiv-national-crisis-in-fiji-assistant-health-minister