Global Fund Secures HIV Prevention Drug for Poor Countries, Malawi Yet to Decide

People at high risk of contracting HIV may soon have a new way to protect themselves, thanks to a new agreement signed by the Global Fund to help low-income countries access Lenacapavir (Len) a long-acting injectable drug that prevents HIV infection.

This development comes just weeks after the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Lenacapavir as a preventive HIV drug. The injection is administered only twice a year, offering a more convenient option for people who may struggle with daily medications or other prevention methods.

Speaking to MIJ Online, Dr. Beatrice Matanje, Executive Director of the National AIDS Commission (NAC) in Malawi, confirmed that the drug has not yet arrived in the country. However, she said discussions are ongoing at high levels to assess its adoption.

Dr. Matanje emphasized that while Malawi considers Lenacapavir, existing HIV prevention strategies remain vital. These include:

• Using condoms
• Voluntary male circumcision
• Taking oral PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) or injectable PrEP
• Taking PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) when exposure is suspected

Health experts believe that if implemented properly, Lenacapavir could significantly reduce new HIV infections, especially among vulnerable populations. Further updates on Malawi’s decision are expected in the coming weeks.

Source;MIJ Online