Mollyn Nakabea 
[Photo: File]
Health officials are expressing concern over rising social media vigilantism surrounding Fiji’s HIV situation.
There are growing warnings that public shaming could drive people away from crucial testing and treatment.
Chair of the National HIV Response Team, Dr Jason Mitchell, says this behavior cannot be allowed.
“What is happening through a lot of the social media platforms that we are seeing is that people are starting to have a vigilante approach to this HIV situation. We really can’t afford to do that.”
Dr Mitchell says the taskforce will request the HIV subcommittee to enforce protections against stigma and privacy breaches under the HIV Act.
“There are strong provisions in there which we need to start exercising. Unfortunately, it has come to that point now where we need to be saying enough is enough and that wewill not tolerate any forms of stigma and discrimination in our community. Mitchell says it has reached a point where Fiji must make it clear that stigma and discrimination will not be tolerated.”
He adds that the high level of stigma is especially concerning given the increased media coverage of the national situation.
Dr Mitchell is calling for a united response that protects privacy and ensures people feel safe accessing health services.
