Fiji’s HIV Epidemic Has Yet To Reach A ‘Turning Point’, Minister Warns
Fiji is facing a generalized HIV epidemic, with the number of people living with the virus rising to approximately 9,000. Health Minister Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu noted that despite increased testing and treatment, the country has not yet reached a turning point in new infections.
Why it matters
The rapid rise in HIV prevalence in Fiji highlights a significant public health crisis that requires urgent intervention and resource allocation.
The number of Fijians living with HIV had risen to at least 9000, or nearly 1 percent of the population, as of March, according to the head of Fiji’s HIV response. RNZ Pacific reporters
Fiji is now in a generalised HIV epidemic, which means the virus is firmly established and spreading within the general population.
The number of people living with HIV in Fiji has risen sharply over the past decade.
Fiji’s Health Minister Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu declared an HIV outbreak in January 2025.
The number of Fijians living with HIV had risen to at least 9000, or nearly 1 percent of the population, as of March, according to the head of Fiji’s HIV response.
The figures indicate that Fiji has a higher HIV prevalence rate than Australia and New Zealand, where the rate is estimated at 0.1 percent.
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