Symposia 6 - Managing HIV Co-infections
Tracks
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| Monday, August 17, 2026 |
| 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM |
| Rewa / Sigatoka |
Details
This session explores the spectrum of HIV co-infections seen across Pacific Island Countries – tuberculosis, viral hepatitis and opportunistic infections – spanning both straightforward and complex clinical presentations. Combining two abstract presentations with a multi-country, case-based learning format, it emphasises practical diagnosis and management, community-based and continuity of care, and South-to-South learning across the Pacific. Cases are drawn from Kiribati, the Cook Islands, the Solomon Islands, Australia and Fiji, reflecting the diversity of settings and the shared challenges of the region.
Speaker
Dr Antoinette David
Pediatrician
Fiji Ministry of Health
Dr Jackson Rakei
Ministry Of Health & Medical Services, Solomon Islands
HIV Case Investigation Analysis from the Solomon Islands
10-minute presentation; Q&A grouped with above abstract "A Sustainable Virtual Education and Case-Based Learning Model to Strengthen HIV and SRH Care in Pacific Island Countries" (30 minutes total for both abstract presentations and discussion).
Marou Tikataake
Kiribati
Case Presentation 1: Simple HIV/TB co-infection
Dr Ruonamakin Rui Mafi
Medical Registrar
Cook Islands
Case Presentation 2: Complex HIV/TB co-infection – TB meningitis
Dr Alusio Vuniivi
CWM Hospital, Suva, Fiji
Case Presentation 3: Complex HIV/TB co-infection – immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS)
Lavenia Gaunavinaka
Ministry Of Health And Medical Services Fiji
Case Presentation 4: Complex opportunistic infection – CMV retinitis in a newly diagnosed pregnant woman living with HIV
Senior Medical Officer at the Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinic in Lautoka, overseeing the clinical and programmatic HIV response for Fiji’s Western Division. She is a lead contributor to the Fiji HIV Estimates 2023–2026, supporting evidence‑based planning and epidemic control.
Session Chair
Dashika Balak
Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services
Catherine O'Connor
Senior Visiting Fellow
The Kirby Institute
