Fiji has declared a national emergency over the sharp rise in HIV infections, with health authorities warning that the Pacific island nation is facing one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the world.
The declaration was made by Fiji’s Ministry of Health and Medical Services as the number of new diagnoses continues to climb, placing additional pressure on the country’s healthcare system.
Fiji recorded more than 2,000 new HIV diagnoses in 2025, representing a significant increase from previous years. UNAIDS has described the rise as one of the sharpest increases in HIV infections recorded globally.
Health officials estimate that about one in 60 adults in Fiji is now living with HIV, while the prevalence among pregnant women is estimated at around one in 50. Only about 39 per cent of people living with HIV are aware of their status, while approximately 22 per cent are receiving antiretroviral treatment.
Authorities have linked the surge largely to sexual transmission and injecting drug use, with injecting drug use accounting for about 42 per cent of reported transmission. The growing use of methamphetamine and unsafe needle-sharing practices have heightened concerns among health officials.
The impact has also extended to children. In 2025, 59 babies were born with HIV, nearly twice the number recorded the previous year, while 18 died before reaching their first birthday.
In response, the Fijian government plans to expand access to free and confidential HIV testing, treatment and prevention services, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Authorities are also working towards formal needle and syringe exchange programmes to reduce infections linked to unsafe injecting practices.
The government has also established a multi-ministerial committee to coordinate the national response, while health officials have urged communities to tackle stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV.
UNAIDS has welcomed Fiji’s emergency declaration, stressing the need for rapid action to expand prevention, testing and treatment services as the country confronts the continuing rise in infections.
