Fiji Struggles to Combat HIV Outbreak Amid Drug Crisis and Stigma

Fiji is facing a severe HIV outbreak driven by intravenous drug use, with over 1,000 new cases reported in the past year. Half of those infected are not receiving treatment, and the healthcare system struggles to address the crisis. The rise in meth use among youth, coupled with practices like “bluetoothing,” exacerbates the issue. Health authorities are initiating measures to control the outbreak, but significant challenges remain, including stigma and a lack of preventive resources.

Mark Lal, a 23-year-old Fijian, was profoundly affected by his HIV diagnosis, especially after witnessing three friends succumb to the virus. He shared, “When I found out… it felt like the ground opened and I fell in and it just closed on me.” His story reflects the grim reality faced by many as Fiji grapples with a burgeoning HIV outbreak, prompting the government to declare an official health crisis in January.

Fiji’s health authorities reported a staggering increase in HIV cases, with over 1,000 new infections last year—a threefold rise from 2022 and a ninefold increase since 2019. The United Nations has recognized this as the second fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Asia-Pacific region, second only to the Philippines, with many cases likely undiagnosed.

Dr. Alipate Vakamocea, president of the Fijian Medical Association, expressed concern regarding the rapid rise in infections, noting that half of those living with HIV in Fiji are neither receiving treatment nor reachable. “They’ve been yelling and yelling, and there doesn’t seem to be much happening,” he lamented.

The HIV outbreak is closely linked to surging drug abuse, with intravenous drug use responsible for 50 percent of new infections, according to the Ministry of Health. Access to methamphetamine has gained traction among Fiji’s youth, exacerbating the crisis and overwhelming mental health facilities, where even primary school-aged children are seeking help.

The practice of “bluetoothing,” where users share their meth high by swapping blood through syringes, poses further risks of HIV and other diseases. Michelle O’Connor from ASHM highlighted the dangers, stating, “It’s a practice which is really dangerous… because it’s taking one person’s blood and putting it into another person’s body.”

Health professionals contend that Fiji’s healthcare system, primarily designed to address HIV through sexual transmission, is ill-prepared for the increasing prevalence driven by drug use. Dr. Vakamocea emphasized that the present strategy failed to accommodate such an outbreak, noting, “The Ministry of Health system was designed to monitor and treat HIV/AIDS just within certain high-risk groups.”

In light of the growing outbreak, volunteers in Suva have initiated public awareness campaigns, including the National Condom Campaign, which aims to enhance sexual health education and improve access to prevention methods. Health Minister Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu announced a 90-day plan focused on treatment acquisition and testing expansion. However, experts argue that Fiji remains behind in its response, with Renata Ram highlighting that the system is, “at least 15 years lagging behind.”

The response to the outbreak is further complicated by significant numbers of undetected cases, some involving mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Dr. Vakamocea noted that nearly 20 newborns were diagnosed last year, indicating a failing system. Many individuals tested leave unreliable contact information, complicating follow-up procedures.

Despite the obstacles, Lal remains hopeful about raising awareness and breaking the stigma associated with HIV. He remarked, “People are having sex… and no-one actually talks about it,” indicating the necessity for open dialogue. The recent condom rally in Suva symbolizes progress toward increased discussion on sexual health, yet experts caution that urgent action is necessary to address the drug crisis.

As Fiji navigates these challenges, surrounding Pacific nations must recognize the potential for similar outbreaks. Dr. Vakamocea warned, “Our Pacific Island neighbours… have to wake up… or they will see public health impacts of HIV and AIDS ‘that they have no idea how to address.'”

The HIV outbreak in Fiji, exacerbated by intravenous drug use and unaddressed stigmas, has led to a significant rise in infections, prompting urgent governmental action. Efforts to combat the epidemic, including awareness campaigns and treatment plans, are underway. However, many cases remain undetected, and there is an urgent need to adopt effective strategies used in other nations, particularly in addressing drug-related health risks. Experts are calling for immediate action not only within Fiji but also among neighboring Pacific nations to prevent a similar crisis.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au