Fiji Urged to Scale Up HIV Prevention Efforts

Fiji needs a stronger and sustained national HIV prevention campaign as the country faces a growing HIV crisis, with calls for prevention efforts to reach communities across the country.

The call comes as concerns grow over the spread of HIV, particularly among children and young people.

Greater focus is being urged on rural communities, informal settlements, schools, families and remote maritime areas, where access to health information, testing and prevention services can be more difficult.

There are also calls for parents and caregivers to be better supported in having age-appropriate conversations with children about HIV, while efforts to address stigma and misinformation are strengthened.

Community organisations could play a greater role in reaching vulnerable groups, particularly in areas where health services and awareness programmes have limited reach.

The proposed approach would involve sustained community outreach, improved access to accurate information and stronger links between communities and health services.

While treatment remains critical for people living with HIV, prevention is being highlighted as equally important to reduce new infections and protect future generations.

The message is clear: HIV prevention needs to reach every community in Fiji, from major towns to the country’s most remote islands.