Fiji has declared a national emergency over the rapid spread of HIV. Health Minister Atonio Lalabalavu made the announcement after receiving support from Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and the Cabinet.
Government figures show a sharp rise in HIV infections. About one in every 60 adults in Fiji is now estimated to be living with HIV. Five years ago, the rate was around one in 1,667 adults.
The country reported 2,060 new HIV diagnoses in 2024. Health officials are concerned that infections are continuing to increase. HIV rates among pregnant women are also causing concern. Around 2% of women attending antenatal clinics are living with HIV. This is equal to about one in every 50 pregnant women.
The World Health Organization has described Fiji as having the second fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region. Only Papua New Guinea has recorded a faster increase.
By March, officials estimated that at least 9,000 people in Fiji were living with HIV. Authorities have identified unsafe drug use as one factor contributing to the rise in infections. The government is now planning a wider response. More people will be encouraged to get tested. Access to HIV treatment will also be expanded.
Officials also want to increase access to PrEP. This medication can help people who do not have HIV reduce their risk of becoming infected. Fiji plans to introduce a formal needle and syringe program. Long-acting injectable HIV prevention is also expected to become available.
The health minister said treatment remains a major part of the response. Effective treatment can help people with HIV stay healthy. It can also reduce the amount of virus in the body to an undetectable level. People who maintain an undetectable viral load do not sexually transmit HIV.
Fiji’s national response will involve health services, community groups, and international partners. Australia, New Zealand, India, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS are among those supporting the effort.
The government is also considering a permanent parliamentary committee focused on HIV and related health issues.
