FIJI has been ranked second in the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) recorded in the Pacific with about 2189 cases recorded last year.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2014 report, the number of reported STI cases had increased since 1995.
A recent survey conducted by WHO found that over recent years, there have been an increasing number of reported STI cases recorded in the Pacific.
Fiji is the second country in the Pacific that has the second highest number of STI cases recorded, WHO said.
“More than 70 per cent of STI cases recorded in STI clinics in Fiji are young people aged 15-30 years,” the report stated.
WHO said one in every three women had an STI, the common STI being chlamydia infection and trichomoniasis.
“The surveys also indicated that the average rate of chlamydia infection among antenatal clinic attendees range from 6 per cent in the Solomon Islands to 29 per cent in Fiji.
“The highest rates of infection (up to 50 per cent) were found in women below 25 years of age.”
Health Minister Jone Usamate said the number of sexually transmitted infections had increased compared with 1694 cases that were detected and recorded by the ministry in 2013.
He said the ministry was aware of the increase in STI cases.
“As such, the Health Ministry continues to advocate, create awareness and educate the public on safe sexual behaviours to prevent sexually transmitted infections, teenage pregnancies and unplanned/unwanted pregnancies,” Mr Usamate said.
“It has been noted that sexually transmitted infections and teenage pregnancy continue to be an increasing public health concern.”
Mr Usamate said sexual reproductive health and STIs continued to be a concern for the ministry.
“In order to reduce the rate of STI transmission, teenage pregnancy, unplanned/unwanted pregnancy, we need individuals to ensure when indulging into sexual activity, that they use protection.”
