Fiji faces rising HIV infections and public health challenges

Fiji is facing significant public health challenges, most notably a rapid rise in HIV infections. Health officials and researchers report that approximately 12,000 people are suspected to be living with HIV, with over 2,000 new cases recorded in 2025. The prevalence among adults is estimated at 1.6 percent. Researchers note a ‘horrendously high’ rate of HIV-related complications among infants, with roughly one baby born with the virus each week and one dying from related complications each month. Factors contributing to the rise include increased drug use and needle sharing, alongside underfunded health services and social stigma.

Medical professionals, including Fiji Medical Association President Dr. Ronald Kumar, have called for urgent action, including declaring an outbreak and removing legislative barriers that prevent compulsory testing and contact tracing.

In other health sectors, Fiji is addressing suicide prevention and pediatric heart health. Officials noted gaps in identifying suicide risks and a lack of data to understand self-harm trends. Meanwhile, health teams have successfully screened over 56,000 children for heart problems across schools and communities to facilitate early detection and treatment.