Fiji Second in Pacific HIV Top Stats
“Fiji is showing that is going to be the second fastest growing nation for HIV patients in the Asia Pacific region, we are second only to the Philippines,” Dr Lalabalavu said.
Friday 06 September 2024 | 14:32
Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu. Photo: Parliament of Fiji
The global picture of Human Immunodeficiency Viruses (HIV) is decreasing, but Fiji’s story is quite different.
Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu highlighted this in Parliament on Wednesday.
Opposition Member of Parliament Virendra Lal questioned Dr Lalabalavu regarding the ministry’s response towards the surge in HIV cases in Fiji.
Related stories
Mr Lal urged the Minister to inform Parliament of the specific measures in place to curb the surge in drug-related offences and increase in HIV cases among youths.
“Fiji is showing that is going to be the second fastest growing nation for HIV patients in the Asia Pacific region, we are second only to the Philippines,” Dr Lalabalavu said.
“Government has exposed the use of injectable drug use as a significant problem in Fiji.”
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services last month revealed that there were 552 cases of HIV cases from January to June.
Dr Lalabalavu said from the 525 cases 15 per cent were injectable drug users. This is the first time Fiji had reached such a record, he said.
“In light of these challenges, the ministry has taken its step to strengthen its HIV response towards drug use,” he said.
“There have been efforts made to improve HIV testing and treatment services across Fiji in a decentralised manner.”
Government has allocated $200,000 in this financial which will be focusing on HIV response.
Feedback: jone.salusalu@fijisun.com.fj
