Regional response needed for Fiji HIV crisis

Fiji’s Ministry of Health has declared an HIV epidemic, citing 1,093 new cases from January to September 2024, three times the number for the same period in 2023. Preliminary data show that half of those on antiretroviral therapy contracted HIV through injecting drug use. Fiji is a major hub for drug trafficking to Australia and New Zealand, contributing to an increase in drug use, particularly methamphetamines. Other critical factors include increasing urbanisation, unemployment, abandonment of traditional land and culture, low awareness of HIV/AIDS, and social stigma, leading to health risk behaviours. The Ministry of Health has implemented an HIV/AIDS response plan that includes harm reduction programmes, condom distribution, and pre-exposure prophylaxis. A United Nations development programme also provides antiviral drugs. The Australian Government’s partnership with UNAIDS on HIV in the Americas also supports Fiji’s efforts to prevent the spread of infection. Australia and New Zealand, in particular, have a responsibility to protect regional public health through education, screening, and treatment of Pacific communities. Implementation of regional anti-drug policies is critical. So is educating tourists and travellers about the risks of HIV/AIDS. The outbreak declaration indicates Fiji’s commitment to addressing the crisis, but success will require regional cooperation.