THE needle and syringe exchange program aimed at reducing HIV transmission among drug users is in its final stages and could soon be rolled out in Fiji.
Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu confirmed the development as Government steps up efforts to tackle the country’s growing HIV outbreak.
“Part of the setup of the HIV Taskforce was to ensure that we came up with a plan and part of those plans that will be implemented will be looking into how we can reduce transmission through the sharing of needles, especially by drug users,” he said.
Dr Lalabalavu said the needle and syringe exchange program was nearing implementation.
He said consultations were continuing with key stakeholders before the program could begin.
“We are mindful of the fact that for the needle exchange program to be implemented in Fiji, it needs the buy-in of all the relevant stakeholders, especially the community in general.”
He also confirmed that Government had prioritised HIV in its funding plans and expected an allocation for the HIV Taskforce in the National Budget to be announced on Friday.
Meanwhile, Fiji Medical Association acting president Dr Ronal Kumar said the program was not about encouraging drug use but preventing the spread of deadly diseases.
“I know the public would think you are encouraging more people to use drugs,” he said.
“But what the needle and syringe program aims to do is ensure that we don’t transmit things like HIV.
It’s not just HIV, hepatitis and other blood-borne conditions that can spread from one person to the other.”
Dr Kumar said even a small reduction in HIV cases would make a significant difference to public health and healthcare costs.
“I think the drug problem is a much bigger problem, but if we can introduce the needle and syringe program, it is going to ensure that we see a little decrease in HIV.”
