A child who reportedly suffered a needle injury in Suva last week is recovering at home after receiving precautionary medication to reduce the risk of HIV infection.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services confirms that the child was initially taken to a health centre in Suva before being referred to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital on the same day.
The Ministry says the child was assessed, treated and started on post-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PEP, as a precaution.
The child has since returned home and is receiving follow-up care.
The Ministry stresses that receiving PEP does not mean the child has HIV.
The source of the needle is unknown, and there is no information confirming whether it carried any infection.
The Ministry explains that PEP is a 28-day course of medication used to help prevent HIV infection following possible exposure.
The treatment is most effective when started as soon as possible, ideally within a few hours and no later than 72 hours after exposure.
The Ministry says the risk of HIV transmission from a needle injury is low and can be reduced further with early medical treatment.
Needle injuries can also carry a risk of hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
The Ministry confirms that the matter has been reported to the Fiji Police Force, and says it will not comment on the circumstances of the alleged incident while investigations continue.
The Ministry is also urging members of the public not to share information that could identify the child, the family, their school or community.
Parents are being reminded to teach their children never to pick up or touch needles and syringes found in public places.
The Ministry is also encouraging children to walk in groups when out in public and immediately inform a trusted adult if they are injured or approached by a stranger.
Anyone who suffers a needle injury is advised to gently wash the affected area with soap and running water and seek medical attention immediately.
The Ministry says people should not squeeze, scrub or suck the wound.
Meanwhile, the Ministry is calling on the public to stop spreading rumours linking the alleged incident to people living with HIV.
The Ministry stresses that there is no information about the source of the needle or the health status of anyone allegedly involved.
The Ministry warns that such speculation creates fear and discrimination and could discourage people from seeking HIV testing and treatment.
HIV testing, treatment and PEP are available free of charge at Ministry health facilities, with testing and treatment provided confidentially.
