‘41pc of new infections females’

FIJI recorded 124 new HIV infections between January and October this year.

And according to Health and Medical Services Minister Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete, 41 per cent of the new cases are females. Speaking at the Fiji Family Training of Trainers Workshop and in recognition of World AIDS Day in Suva yesterday, he said Fiji had 1260 confirmed HIV cases. He said the ministry had recognised that Fijians could not have good sexual health in the absence of good reproductive health and vice versa.

“Therefore, there is a move to integrate the two programs into one, sexual and reproductive health and rights,” Dr Waqainabete said.

“While the barrier methods of family planning prevent HIV, they are important in preventing unintended pregnancies in women living with HIV and the further transmission of HIV until they are virally suppressed.”

He added people should also recognise and acknowledge that HIV was a behavioural disease but preventable as treatment was available for all Fijians free of charge.

“Now more than ever, it has become more evident for us to plan our families, space our children as they are born so that we are able to give adequate attention and love to each of them as they grow.

“Have a required number so that we, as parents, can support them to be successful in life.” Dr Waqainabete also reminded youths to practise safe sex as the health facilities and staff members stood ready to support them in their journey for healthy adulthood.

The Revised Family Planning Training Package for Healthcare workers was also launched at the event.

Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU UNAIDS goodwill ambassador for HIV in the Pacific and Speaker of Parliament Ratu Epeli Nailatikau (left) shares a light moment and a fist bump with Jokapeci Tuberi Cati during the World AIDS Day celebration at the Holiday Inn in Suva yesterday.