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Rising HIV Rates Linked to Dangerous 'Bluetoothing' Practice

10/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Bluetoothing, a dangerous practice of injecting blood from one user into another, is linked to rising HIV rates in Fiji and South Africa.
In Fiji, HIV infections surged tenfold from 2014 to 2024, with many tied to needle sharing.
Experts say the high from bluetoothing may be minimal, but it spreads infections.
Public health officials urge harm-reduction programs to combat this trend, noting poverty and stigma worsen its spread.

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Story summary

Bluetoothing, a dangerous practice of injecting blood from one user into another, is linked to rising HIV rates in Fiji and South Africa.
In Fiji, HIV infections surged tenfold from 2014 to 2024, with many tied to needle sharing.
Experts say the high from bluetoothing may be minimal, but it spreads infections.
Public health officials urge harm-reduction programs to combat this trend, noting poverty and stigma worsen its spread.