What is the current HIV situation in Fiji?

Fiji is facing the world's fastest-growing HIV epidemic, with new cases more than tripling between 2023 and 2024.

How does HIV affect babies in Fiji?

One baby per week is diagnosed with HIV through mother-to-child transmission, and a child under five dies from related complications each month.

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Fiji's Youngest Victims: Babies Born HIV Positive Amid Epidemic

Q: What factors contribute to Fiji's HIV crisis?

Fiji's HIV crisis is fueled by its role as a drug-trafficking hub, rising methamphetamine use, unsafe injecting practices, cultural stigma, and a lack of basic health awareness.

24 Feb

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Summary

Fiji faces the world's fastest-growing HIV epidemic.
One baby per week is diagnosed with HIV from mother-to-child.
Stigma and lack of awareness exacerbate the crisis in Fiji.

Fiji's Youngest Victims: Babies Born HIV Positive Amid Epidemic

Fiji is experiencing the world's most rapidly expanding HIV epidemic, with new diagnoses more than tripling between 2023 and 2024. Over 1,200 people were diagnosed in the first six months of 2025 alone, fueled by Fiji's role as a drug-trafficking hub and rising methamphetamine use. Unsafe injecting practices and limited access to clean needles contribute to the spread.

Compounding the crisis, one baby per week is diagnosed with HIV through mother-to-child transmission, leading to an influx of infants requiring intensive care. Tragically, a child under five dies from HIV-related complications each month, a preventable outcome according to health officials. Vulnerable groups, including young people, partners of drug users, and victims of sexual violence, are increasingly afflicted.