A surge in HIV cases has prompted the Government to fast-track its National Outbreak Response Plan, with completion set for year’s end, Health Minister Dr Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu has confirmed.
“In response to the recent HIV outbreak in Fiji, the ministry is collaborating with relevant stakeholders to finalise the National HIV Outbreak Response Plan by the end of 2025,” Dr Lalabalavu told Parliament.
He said the plan would address prevention, testing, treatment, and community awareness.
“This plan will include strengthening awareness programs, expanding access to HIV testing and counselling, and improving treatment services,” he said.
Dr Lalabalavu said community engagement was critical.
“We will be working closely with communities, civil society organisations, and development partners to ensure that information and services reach those who need them most.” The minister said the rising number of cases demanded urgent action.
“We cannot ignore the fact that our numbers are increasing and that HIV is affecting younger people. It is time we act decisively.”
Fiji recorded its highest-ever number of HIV cases in 2024, with 1583 new diagnoses — a staggering 281 per cent jump from 2023’s 415 cases and more than five times the 131 cases reported in 2018.
Of the total, 1542 were adults.
Forty-one children were diagnosed last year, 32 of them through mother-to-child transmission, compared to just 11 cases among children in 2023. Dr Lalabalavu told Parliament the response follows the official outbreak declaration in January. A dedicated taskforce is now operational, backed by a $10million government allocation and international support, $5.7m from Australia and $5.2m from New Zealand.