Fiji has declared a national emergency over rising HIV cases. The government will expand access to testing, treatment and prevention services.

Health Minister Antonio Lalabalavu said Fiji recorded 2,016 new HIV diagnoses in 2025. About 9,100 people were living with HIV in the country that year.

The minister said the situation now requires a response beyond the level used for an outbreak. Health officials have linked the rise to drug use, unsafe sex and needle sharing.

Another concern involves a practice known as “bluetoothing” or “hotspotting”. The practice involves people who inject drugs using blood from someone who is already intoxicated. Health experts say it has contributed to increases in HIV in some regions.

Fiji plans to introduce a syringe and needle programme as part of its response. Lalabalavu said the country already has enough syringes and needles. However, lawmakers must approve legislative changes before the programme can begin.

The minister also urged people to get tested. He said stigma can prevent people from accessing services that could help them.

Treatment Access Remains Low

UNAIDS data shows that only 39% of people living with HIV in Fiji knew their status in 2025. Just 22% were receiving antiretroviral treatment.

That figure remains far below the global average. UNAIDS reports that 78% of people living with HIV worldwide were accessing treatment.

Jason Mitchell, who leads Fiji’s national HIV response taskforce, said the country could need more than five years to bring the epidemic under control.

He also warned that the increase has placed additional pressure on the health system. People who could receive treatment are still using hospital beds and outpatient services.

UNAIDS welcomed Fiji’s emergency declaration. The organisation said the move highlights the need for a stronger response across government and society.

UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima also warned that HIV epidemics can change quickly. She said countries need health and community systems that can respond urgently.

Fiji’s government is now preparing expanded prevention, testing and treatment measures as it responds to the growing number of HIV cases.