Many people are still diagnosed late for HIV – Health Minister

Too many people are still diagnosed late with HIV when they are already unwell, and this shows that testing and early detection services must be expanded.

Minister for Health, Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu highlighted this during the World AIDS Day commemoration this afternoon at Ratu Sukuna Park.

He says those diagnosed with HIV should start and remain on treatment to live a healthier life.

The Minister stresses that people should take charge of their health, protect themselves, protect their future, get informed, get tested, and use prevention tools.

He says condoms should be used consistently during all sexual encounters and, for intravenous drug users, sterile needles and syringes must be used.

Ratu Atonio also reminded people not to share needles, syringes and drug-mixing equipment.

He says those who test positive for HIV must commence treatment as soon as possible.

The Minister says treatment is free in Fiji, and the Ministry is increasing the number of clinics nationwide to provide treatment and care for individuals and their families.

Ratu Atonio says the national theme this year is “Healthy Islands, Healthy Futures, Ending HIV Transmission Together.”

He says the theme reflects the belief that every Fijian deserves access to safe, quality, people-centred services, and that HIV, STIs, and blood-borne viruses must not determine the future of young people.

The Minister says this year Fiji declared HIV a national outbreak and adopted a National Outbreak Response Plan, led by the HIV Outbreak and Cluster Response Task Force.

He further says the Sexual and Reproductive Health and HIV Unit was also established to rapidly respond to the escalating HIV crisis.

Ratu Atonio says the Fiji Government allocated $10 million to the HIV response, the largest domestic investment in Fiji’s HIV history.

He says this investment sends a clear signal that Fiji is taking ownership of its HIV response and is not relying solely on external partners.

The Minister adds that the Government of Australia has also handed over approximately AUD$1.6 million worth of biomedical equipment and life-saving commodities.

A moment of silence was also observed for those who lost their lives last year.

Meanwhile, many people gathered to mark World AIDS Day at Ratu Sukuna Park this morning.