Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency after recording a sharp rise in new infections over recent years. The Pacific island nation reported 2,016 new HIV diagnoses in 2025, about 16 times the number recorded in 2019. UNAIDS estimates that around 9,100 people were living with HIV in Fiji last year, but only 39% knew their status and 22% were receiving antiretroviral treatment. The government is now expanding testing, prevention, treatment and harm-reduction services as part of a wider national response.Why Fiji Declared HIV EmergencyHealth Minister Atonio Lalabalavu formally announced the national emergency, saying the scale of the epidemic required a coordinated response across government and society. Health authorities and UNAIDS report that sexual transmission accounts for more than half of cases where the transmission route is known, while more than 42% are linked to injecting drug use.Fiji recorded 2,016 new HIV diagnoses in 2025.The figure was 16 times higher than the number recorded in 2019.Around 9,100 people were estimated to be living with HIV in 2025.Only 39% of people with HIV were estimated to know their status.Just 22% were receiving antiretroviral treatment.HIV Cases Rise Across FijiThe government had previously classified the situation as an HIV outbreak in January 2025. Since then, the scale of new diagnoses has continued to raise concern, with health officials seeking stronger measures to improve testing and access to treatment. WHO reported that 1,226 HIV cases had already been notified during the first six months of 2025.Injecting drug use has emerged as an important part of the crisis. WHO assessments found major gaps in access to sterile injecting equipment and harm-reduction services, while UNAIDS said more than 42% of cases with known transmission routes were associated with injecting drug use. The government is therefore preparing to expand a needle and syringe programme.Government Expands HIV ResponseFiji's emergency response includes wider access to free, confidential and voluntary HIV testing, treatment and preventive medicines. Authorities also plan to increase access to PrEP, which can reduce the risk of HIV infection, and strengthen harm-reduction services for people who inject drugs.The government has also established a five-minister Cabinet subcommittee to address policy and implementation barriers. UNAIDS has welcomed the measures, including planned legislative changes needed to introduce a needle and syringe programme.Key HighlightsFiji has declared a national HIV emergency.New diagnoses reached 2,016 in 2025.The 2025 figure was 16 times the 2019 level.Around 9,100 people were estimated to be living with HIV.More than 42% of known transmission routes involved injecting drug use.Fiji plans expanded testing, PrEP, treatment and needle-syringe services.Fiji Steps Up HIV PreventionThe emergency declaration marks a significant expansion of Fiji's HIV epidemic response. Authorities are focusing on earlier diagnosis, treatment access and prevention while also addressing barriers faced by people who inject drugs. Public health agencies have stressed the importance of reducing stigma so that more people seek testing and care.The crisis has also attracted international support, with UNAIDS backing Fiji's response and the government receiving assistance from international partners. The latest measures are aimed at slowing transmission, increasing treatment coverage and improving access to prevention services across the country.Disclaimer: This article is provided only for news and knowledge purposes and is based on official statements and reliable reports available at the time of publication.
