Fiji’s HIV epidemic doubles amid dangerous surge of meth use across islands

A well-liked honeymoon vacation spot is the location of the Pacific’s fastest-growing HIV epidemic, with officers pointing to rising meth use as the principle driver.

The variety of HIV/AIDS instances in Fiji is anticipated to double to greater than 3,000 this yr, in accordance with UNAIDS and the Fiji Ministry of Well being.

Officers say drug use is fueling the Pacific island’s surge.

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In December, the World Well being Group (WHO) launched a speedy evaluation figuring out unsafe injection practices.

These practices might put individuals who inject medication in Fiji at elevated threat of HIV transmission.

Standard honeymoon vacation spot Fiji is going through the quickest rising HIV epidemic within the Pacific. (iStock)

The “Bluetooth pattern” has influenced the unfold – the place people inject the blood of an already intoxicated individual to get excessive whereas being unable to afford their very own medicines.

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There have been 1,583 new HIV instances reported in 2024, whereas 1,226 instances have been reported within the first six months of 2025, in accordance with the evaluation.

The most well-liked drug was crystal methamphetamine, with the overview exhibiting that fifty% of interview members injected themselves with a probably contaminated syringe.

In line with a brand new evaluation, 1,226 instances have been reported in Fiji within the first six months of 2025. (iStock)

An informant from Talanoa Legislation and Justice advised investigators that medication have an effect on the areas of the mind that management considering and feelings.

“[People] might interpret the occasions round them very in another way,” the person stated.

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‘Possibly you simply occur to stroll previous him… and [he] assume[s] you are after him. Particularly after they can’t management their impulses, they turn out to be aggressive,” the informant added.

Munkhtuya Altangel, consultant of the United Nations Improvement Programme, stated the assessments’ findings are a wake-up name.

Almost 1 million individuals visited Fiji final yr. (iStock)

“The HIV epidemic in Fiji isn’t just a well being drawback – it’s a growth and human rights problem that threatens lives, communities and progress,” Altangerel stated in a press launch.

“We should act decisively and urgently to scale up hurt discount, develop entry to HIV testing and remedy, and guarantee nobody is left behind.”

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In line with authorities knowledge, 986,367 individuals visited Fiji final yr.

“Take precautions when performing actions which will expose you to the chance of an infection.”

Fiji is a hotspot for honeymooners, with its white-sand seashores, coral diving and secluded island resorts.

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The Australian journey advisory for Fiji lists HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted illnesses as well being dangers for vacationers.

“The variety of HIV/AIDS infections is rising and the Authorities of Fiji has declared an HIV outbreak. Take precautions when you interact in actions that expose you to the chance of an infection,” it stated.