SUVA, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Fiji President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau said on Tuesday that HIV/AIDS has become a profound threat in Fijiand the region, and called for joint efforts to fight against the disease.

    Speaking at a consultation HIV Prevention Treatment Decree workshop in Suva on Tuesday, Nailatikau said the impact of HIV/AIDS in Africa could be compared to measles in Fiji that wiped out an entire generation.

    "As former UNAIDS special representative on HIV for the Pacificbut now the Fiji special representative on Fiji and recently appointed president, I am proud to be an advocate of a humane and integrated approach to the challenge HIV presents to us," he said.

    Nailatikau said Fiji was part of a global village and was vulnerable.

    He said HIV and AIDS in Fiji and the region had spread rapidly because of cultural, social and religious taboos.

    This is a matter not openly discussed in homes and families despite the growing statistics.

    In Fiji today, there are over 304 cases of HIV positive cases and the number keeps growing as more people opt for tests.

    Even pregnant mothers have been urged to get tested after babies have been reportedly dying from the disease that has crippled countries like Papua New Guinea in the region.

    Since 2004, four children have died in Fiji's hospitals because of HIV.

    Addressing HIV in Fiji is a challenge and requires patience and understanding, as it means a complete turn around in attitude, said the health authorities.

    People in the communities are persuaded to change their attitude to deal with sensitive and taboo topics.

    Nailatikau had a strong message for people in Fiji to stand up and not remain silent on the subject.

    He appealed to the younger generation to protect themselves as abstinence is becoming an unrealistic approach.

    Traditional and religious leaders have been told to preach the unpalatable message which would be readily absorbed if repeated by respected leaders.

    The island nation of just a little over a population of 800,000could risk being wiped out if the message is not preached and accepted by people and therefore more needs to be done to ensure a change for the better.

    The Fiji president therefore hoped the draft decree would meet international standards and that those affected with HIV in Fiji are respected and loved as they ought to be.