Fiji could soon have close to 9,000 people living with HIV, a figure that will place growing pressure on the country’s public health system, Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa warned in Parliament yesterday.
Speaking during the debate on the President’s Address, Ravunawa said HIV is a chronic illness that requires lifelong treatment and medical monitoring.
“Furthermore, Mr Speaker, Sir, HIV is a chronic disease that requires lifelong treatment. Individuals diagnosed with HIV will now have to take antiretroviral medication every single day for the rest of their lives to keep the viral load low,” he said.
He explained that maintaining a low viral load helps prevent the transmission of the virus to others but requires consistent medication and medical care.
Ravunawa said projections show the number of people living with HIV in Fiji could soon approach 9,000.
“Every one of these individuals will require continuous treatment, monitoring, and clinical support. This will induce further burden to our already stretched public health system,” he said.
He also highlighted the long-term financial implications of the growing number of cases, noting that treatment costs could run into millions of dollars in the coming decades.
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the cost of this treatment will run into millions of dollars over the coming decades, which is why prevention today is not only a health investment, but also a financial investment in our nation’s future,” Ravunawa said.
The assistant minister stressed that addressing the HIV crisis requires a united national effort.
“HIV is not a political issue. HIV does not ask which political party you support, which province you come from, or which religion you belong to — it affects everyone,” he said.
“Therefore, the response must come from everyone — the Government, the Opposition, civil society, faith-based organisations, traditional leaders and communities must stand together.”
Ravunawa added that when the nation faces a health crisis, unity is essential.
“When our nation faces a health crisis, unity is not optional; unity is necessary.”
