by Marie Kauna – EMTV Online, Port Moresby
The Pacific island nation of Fiji is believed to have the highest number of HIV cases when comparing it to its regional counterparts. So with this in mind, the government are making plans to provide the population with a more thorough scanning system.
Fiji’s Ministry of Health want citizens to undergo comprehensive scanning, a plan which was discussed during the week long National Strategic Planning meeting for health stakeholders. .
From studies and reported cases of HIV AIDS, young people are vulnerable to getting the virus despite the efforts invested in regards to raising awareness amongst the younger demographic
According to Fiji UNAIDS Country Director, Roberto Luiz Brant Campos, “Youths are very vulnerable as their level of HIV is low but their level of sexual transmitted infection is high on both boys and girls including young pregnant women.”
Dr Meciusela Tuicakau, Director Hospital Services, says he is confident the ministry will build on the previous work by President and HIV/AIDS awareness advocate, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.
Dr Tuicakau added that “the vision seems more clearer and closer than ever before, on achieving the bold declaration of UNAIDs, zero new infections, zero AIDS-related deaths, and zero stigma, discrimination and moving towards the goals of 90, 90, 90.”