Fiji declares HIV a national crisis as diagnoses surge

The government of Fiji has officially declared a national HIV crisis following a significant surge in new diagnoses. Official data indicates that new cases rose by 27% last year, with the virus now estimated to affect one in 60 adults across the Pacific nation. The government reports that 2,016 people are currently living with the virus.

Authorities have identified sexual transmission and the use of illicit drugs as primary drivers of the spread. In response to the crisis, the government has announced an expansion of public health initiatives, including increased access to free HIV testing, prevention services, and medical treatment.