COMMENTARY: Fiji’s outbreak of HIV should serve as a critical warning for Tonga, which previously faced a notable increase in its HIV cases.
Fiji’s minister for health and medical services has declared an HIV outbreak.
Dr Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu announced 1093 new HIV cases from the period of January to September 2024.
“This declaration reflects the alarming reality that HIV is evolving faster than our current services can cater for,” he said.
“We need the support of every Fijian. Communities, civil society, faith-based organisations, private sector partners, and international allies must join us in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and ensuring everyone affected by HIV receives the care and support they need.”
Tonga cases
Tonga’s first case of HIV was recorded in 1987.
In 2014, there were 19 cases of HIV recorded in the kingdom.
The former director of Health, Dr Siale ‘Akau’ola, previously said the kingdom needed to continue its work in preventing HIV-aids, including educating on safe sex, to reach new United Nations targets.
Dr Akauola told RNZ Pacific at the time that his ministry has been successful in keeping the number of HIV/aids cases in Tonga at 19 since 2012.
However, he said they need to stay vigilant.
But why should the situation in Fiji be a concern for Tonga?
Fijian authorities attributed the outbreak to the sharing of drugs through blood to get high. The method is known as bluetoothing.
How does bluetoothing work?
It is when one person becomes the host and injects themself with meth.
When the high kicks in, another person draws out blood, often using the same needle, and injects it into their own vein.
In a group, this can be done multiple times.
It is a popular practice in Fiji in situations when there is a limited amount of meth.
Meth crisis
Tonga is in a methamphetamine crisis.
Kaniva News is aware of unconfirmed reports that blutoothing is already being used by drug users in Tonga.
A New Zealand’s One News report claimed a young mother and her two siblings in Tonga take meth daily while children are in the house.
The drugs are supplied to her by friends in exchange for sex, the report said.
She said while she “should” kick her addiction, “it’s making me stronger”.
What is HIV?
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks cells that help the body fight infection, making a person more vulnerable to other infections and diseases.
It is spread by contact with certain bodily fluids of a person with HIV, most commonly during unprotected sex (sex without a condom or HIV medicine to prevent or treat HIV), or through sharing injection drug equipment.
If left untreated, HIV can lead to the disease AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).
