212 out of the 258 cases of HIV that were reported from January to September this year are among the i-Taukei community.
According to the Head of Family Health from the Ministry of Health, Doctor Rachel Devi, 40 were among the Fijians of Indian descent community, and 6 among other ethnicities.
She also highlighted that from the 10 cases involving children, 6 cases were transmitted from mother to child, while 4 cases were transmitted through other means.
Dr Devi says the four cases transmitted through other means were between the ages of 11 to 14 years, while the remaining children were less than 4 years of age.
She adds 14 cases were reported among teenagers, and nearly 50 percent of the individuals affected were between 20 and 29 years old.
The Head of Family Health says 29 people have died from HIV this year, with 26 adults and 3 children.
She adds that it is particularly disheartening to note that all but one of these individuals were aware of their HIV status but unfortunately defaulted on treatment.
Dr Devi revealed that 181 males, 72 females, and 5 transgender individuals were affected by HIV this year.
She says the Health Ministry is diligently working to address the challenges posed by HIV in Fiji, and it's crucial for the public to be aware of the prevalence and impact of this disease.
She further says efforts to provide support, education, and access to treatment and care are ongoing, with the aim of reducing the incidence of HIV and improving the well-being of those affected.
Dr Devi adds it is essential for individuals to prioritize their health and seek early testing and treatment if necessary and they encourage the public to remain vigilant and proactive in preventing the spread of HIV and to seek support and information from healthcare professionals.
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