Fiji Declares National HIV Emergency as Diagnoses Surge Sixteenfold

Authorities launch a multi-agency public health campaign to expand free testing, treatment, and harm-reduction services

Fiji has announced a nationwide health response to address a significant rise in HIV cases and ensure that all residents can access essential medical care.

On Wednesday, Health Minister Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu shared the emergency declaration, explaining that national agencies are joining forces to provide rapid medical support, expand testing, and protect community well-being across the islands.

Official reports indicate that about one in every 60 adults in Fiji currently lives with HIV, following an increase in new infections over recent years. Health specialists explain that the virus spreads primarily through intimate sexual contact and shared needles among individuals using illicit substances.

Additionally, routine screenings revealed that two out of every 100 expecting mothers carry the virus, highlighting an urgent need for early maternal healthcare to protect newborns from infection.

To safeguard public health, authorities are delivering free daily treatments, distributing protective preventive medications, and setting up clean needle programs to stop infections before they start.

Furthermore, global partners, including Australia, New Zealand, India, and United Nations health bodies are providing financial resources and medical supplies to back the local effort.

By encouraging open community conversations and delivering accessible healthcare without judgment, health workers aim to ensure that everyone receives the care and dignity they deserve.

Fiji Declares National HIV Emergency as Diagnoses Surge Sixteenfold

Adamawa Health Officials Report 20 Deaths from Suspected Diphtheria Cases

Parents and caregivers are advised to seek early medical help and update childhood vaccinations as response teams expand outreach.

Health authorities in Adamawa State are responding to a diphtheria outbreak that has caused 20 deaths across 13 local government areas. Speaking on Wednesday, State Epidemiologist Jones Steven Kadabiyu confirmed that health workers have recorded 126 suspected cases throughout the state, with six patients currently receiving medical care in local hospitals.

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial illness that spreads through airborne droplets from coughing or close personal contact. It mainly affects the throat and airway, causing sore throats, mild fevers, swollen neck glands, and difficulty swallowing or breathing.

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Health officials emphasized that the biggest risk to patients has been waiting too long to visit a health center, as some families try informal remedies at home first before seeking professional medical attention.

The state government is working alongside health partners to track new cases, provide specialized antibiotics and treatments, and protect medical workers and family members.

Officials stressed that while diphtheria can affect people of any age, young children are the most vulnerable to serious complications. Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to ensure their children are up to date on their routine vaccines and to visit the nearest clinic immediately if anyone develops throat swelling or breathing issues.

Adamawa Health Officials Report 20 Deaths from Suspected Diphtheria Cases

The Onigbesi of Igbesi Land in Kwara State, Oba Moses Oyinloye Iwedunmoye I, has died days after he was rescued from kidnappers.

The monarch passed away in the early hours of Saturday at a hospital, according to his son, Prince Olasunkanmi, who said his father had been receiving treatment following a brief illness.

“Yes, the news is true. He died after a brief illness following his release. We took him to the hospital, hoping he would survive, but he died there very early this morning,” Olasunkanmi said.

Oba Iwedunmoye was abducted on August 22 when armed men invaded Igbesi community in Isin Local Government Area.

He regained his freedom five days later after security forces launched an operation around the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro area, where three kidnapped victims were found.

The rescue followed a report received at the Oro Police Station from a vigilante member, who alerted authorities after one of his colleagues was shot while operating in the bush.

A combined team of police officers, soldiers and vigilantes was subsequently deployed to the area.

Police said the suspected kidnappers engaged the team in a gun battle after spotting the advancing operatives. One alleged kidnapper was killed during the exchange, while others escaped into the surrounding area.

The security team continued the search and eventually located the three victims, who were evacuated for medical treatment.

News of the monarch’s death was announced by Bisi Fakayode, National President of Omo Ibile Igbomina, who mourned the traditional ruler and prayed for the repose of his soul.

The circumstances surrounding the monarch’s illness and death have not been publicly disclosed beyond his family’s account that he fell ill after his release.