Pacific urged to act as Fiji declares HIV emergency

Pacific countries have been urged to strengthen cooperation on HIV as Fiji declares the disease a national emergency following a sharp rise in new infections.

Fiji made the declaration on Sept.15, with the World Health Organization (WHO) saying the move provides an opportunity to intensify work already underway to address the growing HIV situation.

UNAIDS estimates that about 9,100 people were living with HIV in Fiji in 2025, 12 times the number recorded in 2010. However, only 39 per cent knew their status and 22 per cent were accessing treatment.

WHO said it would continue supporting Fiji’s Ministry of Health and Medical Services as the Government expands free HIV testing, prevention and treatment services.

These measures include pre-exposure prophylaxis (PREP), harm reduction measures for people who inject drugs and free treatment for people diagnosed with HIV.