The author discusses illegal prostitution in Fiji. She is a physician specializing in the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) who has cared for more than 50% of Fiji's HIV-positive people. Although individual sex workers may be fined by the authorities and chastised in the press, there is no shortage of prostitutes who work night shifts, day shifts, and part time. Transvestites also work as commercial sex workers. Rates vary according to clientele with local men paying $5-10 for intercourse and tourists paying $20. Rates also vary according to type of sexual activity. No organized solidarity group or union exist for sex workers and most work individually guided by their needs and convenience often with regular clients. A few support groups are, however, developing. Workers have a tough time negotiating condom use. Many think taking a penicillin tablet daily will prevent STD, very few use the free government STD clinics, and very few have regular medical check-ups. The author notes in closing that social barriers prohibit effective outreach programs to prostitutes in Fiji.

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Infections virus infection HIV Infections polynesia sexual behavior Human immunodeficiency virus infection Reproductive Tract Infections developing country Micronesia-polynesia Developing Countries Political Factors Fiji Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Disease sexually transmitted disease Sexually Transmitted Diseases Oceania Conservatism Viral Diseases Sex Behavior Diseases Virus Diseases Prostitutes Pacific islands Behavior Article politics infection general aspects of disease acquired immune deficiency syndrome