Stigma and shame leave HIV, TB patients abandoned

Behind the sta­tistics of Fiji's growing HIV/AIDS and Tubercu­losis (TB) crisis are stories of fear, stigma, and abandonment.

Most patients are admitted with advanced AIDS and tuberculosis.

They are often left to cope with the diagnosis alone.

Some families withdraw their support, while others hide the ill­ness due to stigma and shame.

"We've had patients abandoned at the hospital. Some children go back to the streets after being discharged because they have nowhere to go," said Dr Luse Buinimasi, National TB Programme control officer.

"It's not just about physical health, there are mental, emotion­al, social, and financial struggles."

Health workers are stepping in to fill the gap.

Doctors and nurses spend hours in post-test counselling, to help pa­tients understand their diagnosis, start lifelong treatment, and if pos­sible, disclose their condition to at least one trusted person.

"Some stay with us for months," Dr Buinimasi said.

'We encourage them to share this jour­ney with someone who can walk with them. It's not an easy journey; but it is not a death sentence."

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has increased investment into TB and HIV pro­grammes.

Civil society organisa­tions are being called in to provide safe homes for abandoned patients.

But stigma remains the biggest barrier.

“People think HIV means certain death,” Dr Buinimasi said.

“But with treatment, you can live a normal life. The hardest battle we face isn’t just medical — it’s changing how our communities see and support those living with HIV.”

UNAIDS co-ordinator Renata Ram said stigma and discrimination continued to be major barriers for people living with HIV in Fiji and the Pacific.

She said rejection and abandonment by families and communities remained a painful reality for many, especially when they most needed care and support.

“Often this stems from a lack of knowledge and understanding about HIV, which fuels fear and misinformation.”

UNAIDS is working with government, civil society groups, and networks of people living with HIV to build more supportive environments and ensure that individuals receive not only treatment but also dignity and compassion.

“Family and community acceptance is one of the strongest determinants of well-being for people living with HIV, and changing harmful attitudes remains central to ending AIDS,” Ms Ram said.

As part of these efforts, UNAIDS has launched the Power to Life booklet, a resource designed to help families and individuals navigate the challenges of stigma.

The booklet dispels myths about HIV, provides accurate information, and connects people with peer support and community resources.

Ms Ram said such tools were vital in breaking down fear, fostering understanding, and helping families remain united in the face of HIV.

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj