FCS proposes mandatory HIV testing as cases rise
Comprehensive screening begins this week at Suva Corrections facility
Tuesday 18 August 2026 | 11:00
A comprehensive mass HIV screening programme begins this week at the Suva Corrections facility.
Photo: Fiji Corrections Service
The Fiji Corrections Service plans to introduce mandatory HIV testing for all newly admitted inmates as part of efforts to track and manage the increasing number of HIV cases in correctional facilities.
The proposal is currently undergoing legal review, according to a statement released by the service.
“To accurately track the transmission incidence rate, FCS is actively working to introduce mandatory HIV testing for all newly admitted inmates as a critical public health necessity. This policy is currently undergoing formal legal review,” the statement said.
Related stories
The move comes as HIV cases within Fiji’s correctional facilities continue to rise. FCS reported that there are currently 206 active HIV cases recorded across the country’s 15 correctional institutions.
Records show 151 cases in 2024 and 173 cases in 2025, while the prevalence rate has increased from 6.7 per cent in 2024 to 7.8 per cent in 2025 and now stands at 9.3 per cent.
In response, the service is rolling out several health interventions aimed at improving monitoring and treatment outcomes.
“The Fiji Corrections Service is taking aggressive steps to manage and monitor the situation.”
Among those measures is a comprehensive HIV screening programme.
“Mass Screening: Comprehensive screening begins this week at the Suva Corrections facility.”
FCS said updated baseline data would also be made available later this year.
“Updated, definitive baseline data will be finalised and made available by the end of September.”
The service said it remained committed to transparency, public safety and inmate health while pursuing evidence-based approaches to tackle HIV within correctional facilities.
