From Fox News · Jessica Mekles · · 1m 40s
Fiji Declares HIV Emergency
Fiji declares national HIV emergency amid 16-fold surge in infections.
In brief
Fiji declares national HIV emergency amid 16-fold surge in infections. Fiji declares national HIV emergency after one in 60 adults now live with HIV, a 16-fold increase from 2019. Originally reported by Fox News.
Fiji declares national HIV emergency
Fiji has officially declared a national HIV emergency on its shores after alarming data revealed that one in 60 adults in the South Pacific island nation is living with the virus.
HIV cases surge 16-fold since 2019
Fiji recorded more than 2,000 new HIV cases in 2025 alone, representing a staggering 16-fold increase compared to 2019.
Infection rate jumps to one in 60
The infection rate has climbed from one in 167 adults five years ago to one in 60, with one in 50 pregnant women now infected.
59 infants born with HIV in 2025
Fifty-nine infants were born in 2025 with the virus, and 18 died before their first birthday.
Crystal meth drives epidemic
Health officials point to a growing epidemic of injected drug use, particularly crystal methamphetamine, as the primary catalyst for the surge in HIV infections.
Health minister announces response
Atonio Lalabalavu, Fiji's health minister, announced a comprehensive, whole-of-government response to the crisis, emphasizing protection over judgment.
Government expands testing and treatment
The government is expanding free testing, providing clean needles for drug users, and offering free antiretroviral treatments to address gaps in care.
Global health community warns of spread
Regional health directors warn that Fiji's crisis could spread to other South Pacific nations without swift, stigma-reducing action by government, community, and religious leaders.
At a glance
Fiji declares national HIV emergency after one in 60 adults now live with HIV, a 16-fold increase from 2019.
