#1 out of 4
health1d ago
Drugs, denial and stigma: the babies and children swept up in Fiji’s HIV nightmare
- The HIV epidemic in Fiji is rapidly expanding, with new cases rising as meth use increases and unsafe injecting persists.
- Baby Andi tested HIV positive after birth, and Clare and her husband also carry the virus, illustrating mother-to-child transmission.
- Health workers report one baby a week is now being diagnosed with HIV from mother-to-child transmission.
- Despite challenges, doctors emphasize treatment can enable HIV patients, including children, to live with the condition.
- UNAids and WHO note knowledge gaps about HIV persist in villages and among traditional communities.
- Advocates are expanding testing and care through mobile clinics and safe houses for those affected.
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is being introduced to reduce new infections among at-risk women.
- Communities are mobilizing to support HIV-affected families and reduce stigma.
- Some families face stigma at home, while safe houses and NGOs provide support for survivors and children.
- The Fiji government and international partners have allocated millions to bolster the HIV response.
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