Fiji’s HIV Outbreak: Unprepared Amid Rising Meth Use and Stigma

Fiji is experiencing a severe HIV outbreak linked to meth use and the dangerous practice of “bluetoothing,” leading to over 1,000 reported cases last year—triple the number from 2023. The health system is under pressure, with many HIV-positive individuals untreated. The government has launched a 90-day plan to address the crisis, while experts emphasize the need to combat the associated drug epidemic and reduce stigma around HIV to prevent further transmission.

Fiji is currently facing a severe HIV outbreak primarily linked to methamphetamine use and a dangerous practice known as “bluetoothing.” Mark Lal, a 23-year-old Fijian, experienced the loss of friends to HIV before receiving his own diagnosis. While he is now receiving treatment, the emotional toll has been significant. Last year, Fiji reported over 1,000 HIV cases, representing a threefold increase from 2023 and a ninefold increase since 2019, as per health authorities’ statistics.

Fiji’s HIV epidemic is particularly alarming as it reportedly has one of the fastest growth rates in the Asia-Pacific region, second only to the Philippines. A substantial number of cases have gone undetected, which signifies that the true extent of the HIV outbreak is likely underestimated. Alipate Vakamocea, president of the Fijian Medical Association, expressed deep concern about the inadequacies of the health system to manage this escalating crisis, noting that half of the individuals diagnosed with HIV are not undergoing treatment.

The alarming increase in HIV cases correlates with a rising drug epidemic in Fiji, particularly regarding intravenous drug use and methamphetamine. The Ministry of Health indicated that 50% of the new HIV infections are due to drug use. The issue is compounded by the practice of “bluetoothing,” where users share their injected meth, thus increasing the risk of transmitting HIV and other communicable diseases. This trend has overwhelmed health services, particularly among younger populations.

To address what has been termed a “failed” health system, Fiji’s Ministry of Health has initiated a 90-day plan which includes increasing access to treatments and preventive measures. Amid these actions, health experts have noted that Fiji’s HIV response is significantly outdated by at least 15 years, lacking crucial preventive treatments such as PrEP. Moreover, testing and contact tracing measures remain insufficient and hinder efforts to control the outbreak.

Despite receiving support from his partner, Mark Lal faced emotional backlash from his family upon disclosing his HIV status. His experiences highlight the stigma surrounding sexual health discussions in Fiji, which may contribute to the ongoing crisis. Recent community efforts, such as the National Condom Campaign, aim to raise awareness about safe sex practices and reduce stigma. However, experts warn that addressing the rampant drug crisis is essential to successfully manage the HIV situation and prevent further spread of the virus throughout the region.

Fiji’s health system, while among the best in the Pacific, must adapt rapidly to its current challenges. Other Pacific nations are urged to take notice of Fiji’s dire situation and implement strategies to prevent similar outbreaks in their own countries. Alipate Vakamocea emphasized the need for proactive measures, stating that failure to do so could lead to unforeseen public health crises involving HIV and AIDS across the region.

The HIV outbreak in Fiji, driven by rising methamphetamine use and the risky practice of “bluetoothing,” has led to alarming increases in new infections. The health system is struggling to manage the crisis, with significant numbers of HIV-positive individuals untreated and untraceable. In light of these challenges, the Fijian government is initiating new public health measures to enhance treatment and preventive strategies, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the drug epidemic. The stigma surrounding HIV must also be dismantled to facilitate better awareness and prevention efforts, making it essential for Fiji and neighboring Pacific nations to adopt comprehensive public health strategies.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au