Health Ministry receives 3,000 emergency Antiretroviral drugs from UNDP to support HIV surge response

As Fiji faces an increase in the number of HIV cases, the UNDP has recently delivered 3,000 much needed emergency antiretroviral (ARV) drugs to the Ministry of Health.

UNDP and Health Ministry in a joint statement say this delivery is in support of Fiji’s ongoing response to the recent surge in HIV infections, ensuring continued treatment access for those living with HIV.

Fiji is experiencing a concerning rise in new HIV cases, with a reported 260 percent increase over the past year, where 552 new HIV cases were recorded from January to June last year.

They say the Ministry of Health remains committed to stabilising the supply chain for HIV test kits and ensuring ARV medication is available to all patients who need it.

Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, has assured the public that ARV drug supplies remain steady, and urged for continued testing and treatment adherence to mitigate further spread of the virus.

Dr. Lalabalavu says the timely delivery of these emergency ARV drugs demonstrates their commitment to leaving no one behind in the fight against HIV.

He says this partnership with UNDP ensures that they maintain continuity of care for the people and strengthen their capacity to manage the current surge.

UNDP Resident Representative for the Pacific Office in Fiji, Munkhtuya Altangerel, emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts to address the crisis, saying they are working alongside the Ministry of Health to ensure critical HIV services remain uninterrupted.

Altangerel says access to life-saving treatment is essential for safeguarding public health and supporting the resilience of affected communities.

In July of 2024, the Ministry of Health and UNDP signed a financing agreement under the Multi-country Western Pacific Programme in Fiji – through the Fiji Health Procurement Project.

They say the project will ensure that essential HIV, STI, and TB drugs, medical supply and equipment are procured and delivered to the Ministry efficiently.

They say in addition to strengthening procurement systems, the partnership also ensures timely drug availability and reaching vulnerable populations to prevent and manage these infections effectively.