Fiji faces rising HIV/AIDS cases and drug use, as stated by UNAIDS adviser Renata Ram. Historically, HIV funding decreased, causing neglect as resources shifted to other health priorities. This deterioration in focus, along with a fragile health system, has intensified the current challenges.
Fiji is currently facing significant challenges regarding the management of HIV/AIDS and drug-related issues, as highlighted by Renata Ram, a Pacific adviser from UNAIDS. She conveyed to The Fiji Times that a lack of skills and prioritization has contributed to a rise in HIV/AIDS cases. Previously, HIV was not prioritized compared to other health concerns like non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Ms. Ram referenced that, historically, HIV funding declined after 2012, a time when Fiji and other Pacific Islands believed they were successfully managing the epidemic. However, she noted that this control was not sustained due to multiple factors, including a focus on NCD crises and resource reallocations by health ministries toward more pressing health issues. Outbreaks of dengue and Zika, along with natural disasters, shifted priorities further away from HIV.
Additionally, Ms. Ram criticized the strength of Fiji’s health system, indicating that as the immediate threat of HIV seemed manageable, it was gradually deprioritized by the Ministry of Health. Concerns began to rise in 2018 when drug use emerged, particularly linked to affluent individuals and sex workers. However, this issue has since escalated into a broader problem, with many contributing factors making it clear that a lack of preparedness to address the situation was evident.
In summary, Fiji is confronted with a critical situation regarding HIV/AIDS and drug use, stemming from inadequate skills and shifting health priorities. The historical neglect of HIV due to other health crises has left the country vulnerable, emphasizing the urgent need for a strategic focus and resource allocation to combat these growing issues.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
