Online Reporter
Andile Tshuma
BULAWAYO yesterday saw the first injections of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis against HIV infection that is administered twice a year.
Scores of key vulnerable groups, including sex workers, thronged the ‘Sisters Clinic at Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research’ housed at the Khami Clinic in the city to access the prevention drug.
The introduction of Lenacapavir, recently recommended by the World Health Organisation as an additional HIV prevention option, is seen as helping Zimbabwe continue to reduce its rates of new HIV infection.
Lenacapavir offers six months of protection against HIV infection, easing the burden of adherence for individuals who struggle with taking medication every day.
Health authorities say this innovation strengthens Zimbabwe’s combination HIV prevention strategy, complementing condom use, regular testing, treatment and behavioural interventions.
Zimbabwe has made notable progress over the past decade in expanding antiretroviral therapy and reducing HIV-related deaths.
Now over 95 percent of those infected with HIV know their status, more than 95 percent of those are on ART medication, and 95 percent of those on medication have seen their viral load suppressed that they are no longer infectious, while continuing to take medication.
However, new infections persist, particularly among adolescent girls and young women, sex workers and other key groups some of whom cannot be tested or take medication regularly.
The initial rollout will prioritise groups at higher risk of acquiring HIV, including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers and their clients, and pregnant and breastfeeding women in high-incidence settings.
Bulawayo, as one of the country’s key urban centres with significant HIV incidence, is part of the phased introduction.
Sex workers who spoke to Zimpapers during the launch at the Khami Clinic in Bulawayo said the twice-yearly injection addresses real challenges they face.
“We sometimes travel for our work and it becomes difficult to take a pill every day at the same time. With an injection that lasts six months, I feel more protected and less stressed,” said Carol Banda.
CeSHHAR technical director Dr Byron Chingombe said Lenacapavir does not replace other prevention methods, but adds another layer of protection.
“This is an additional tool in our HIV prevention toolkit. Scientific evidence shows very high effectiveness when administered correctly. Our priority now is ensuring equitable access, proper follow-up and sustained supply,” he said.
