A state of emergency has been declared in Fiji due to a troubling spike in HIV cases, which authorities attribute primarily to a rising epidemic of methamphetamine use. During a formal address on September 15, Health Minister Atonio Lalabalavu announced that the situation concerning the virus has reached critical levels, necessitating urgent action from the government and health sectors.
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Recent estimates indicate that approximately one in every 60 adults in Fiji is now living with HIV, with the figure rising to one in 50 among pregnant women. This marks a significant escalation from five years ago, when the prevalence was estimated at one in 167 individuals. “This alarming increase is the reason I am formally declaring a national HIV emergency in Fiji,” Lalabalavu stated, highlighting the seriousness of the crisis.
Emphasising the need for a robust response, the minister noted the gaps in current prevention, treatment, and ongoing care for those living with HIV. “An outbreak-level response is no longer sufficient,” he remarked, calling for coordinated efforts across government, communities, and international partners to address the epidemic effectively.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that a substantial portion of new HIV cases in Fiji is linked to injecting drug use. This alarming trend was underscored by WHO data showing that nearly half of those commencing treatment for HIV in 2024 were drug injectors. The organisation has identified unsafe injecting practices as a major contributing factor to the transmission of the virus, while also pointing out the urgent need for increased access to preventative measures and stigma-free healthcare.
Statistics indicate that, in 2024 alone, Fiji recorded 1,583 new cases of HIV, a significant concern for a nation with a population of less than one million. The first half of 2025 saw another 1,226 new diagnoses, a number that reflects a worrying trajectory for public health in the region. Among the troubling cases reported was that of a two-month-old infant diagnosed with both HIV and tuberculosis, as detailed in a report by Save the Children Fiji.
Renata Ram, an advisor for the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), expressed particular concern over the rapid pace of the epidemic. She highlighted that only 39% of Fijians are aware of their HIV status, a statistic she described as alarming. In stark contrast to global trends, which have seen a 42% reduction in HIV infections from 2010 to 2025, Fiji’s statistics reflect an extraordinary increase during the same timeframe.
In light of this growing crisis, Lalabalavu outlined the government’s plan to enhance HIV treatment and testing initiatives, as well as expand access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP, a preventative measure that can reduce the risk of contracting HIV by up to 99%, will be made more widely available as part of the emergency response. Additionally, the government announced plans to implement a formal needle and syringe programme, aiming to mitigate the risks associated with drug use.
Lalabalavu urged Fijians to unite in the fight against HIV, stressing the importance of treating those diagnosed with respect and dignity. He called on individuals to support friends and family members seeking care, stating that “stigma drives people away from the very services that can help them.” The minister reassured individuals diagnosed with HIV that effective treatment is available, allowing them to lead full and healthy lives despite their condition.
As Fiji grapples with this pressing health emergency, the health ministry’s commitment to expanding access to testing, treatment, and preventative resources is critical. “Together, we can reduce new infections, save lives, and protect future generations,” Lalabalavu declared, encouraging a collective effort from all corners of society to combat the ongoing HIV crisis.