Open discussions about HIV prevention in cultural and traditional settings are crucial for rural and faith-based communities.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Service commemorated World Leprosy Day yesterday, highlighting the theme Unite, Act, and Eliminate, with global observance aiming to raise awareness about leprosy, its impact, and the ongoing fight for its eradication.

With HIV cases increasing at an alarming rate, health officials have called for urgent action to secure the resources needed to fight the epidemic effectively.

The recent report of 1,093 new HIV cases has sparked widespread concern, with various sectors of society calling for urgent action to address the rising crisis.

The government is navigating discussions around the potential privatization of key healthcare infrastructure.

While 1,093 new HIV cases have been reported in the first nine months of 2024, experts warn that the actual number may be higher.

Fiji continues to be the second fastest growing HIV epidemic in the Asia and the Pacific region.

Education Minister Aseri Radrodro says they are ramping up efforts to combat the rising number of HIV cases among school-aged children.

The newly launched National HIV Surge Strategic Plan aims to reduce HIV transmission, prioritize prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care, and harm reduction, and address its connection with drug use.

For every person affected by HIV, there is an estimated ratio of three unregistered cases.

The battle against HIV is not only a health issue but also a potential economic and developmental challenge says Minister for Health Dr Atonio Lalabalavu.

There has been a disturbing rise in HIV-related deaths, with 115 fatalities recorded between January and September last year prompting the Ministry of Health to declare a national HIV outbreak.