Twice-yearly injection offers 100% protection against HIV

A recent study has found that a twice-yearly injection, known as lenacapavir, offers 100% protection against HIV in young women and girls. Conducted in South Africa and Uganda with around 5,000 participants, the study reported no infections among those receiving the injections, while approximately 2% of those taking daily prevention pills contracted the virus. The injections, developed by Gilead, are currently approved for HIV treatment but not yet for prevention in men. The study's results were published in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at an AIDS conference in Munich. Experts have expressed excitement about the potential of these injections to revolutionize HIV prevention, particularly in regions where consistent use of daily pills has been challenging. However, concerns remain regarding the affordability of the treatment, as Gilead has not yet established a price for the injections in poorer countries. The company is considering a voluntary licensing program to allow select generic manufacturers to produce the drug. Health advocates emphasize the need for affordable access, especially for vulnerable populations, including women and girls facing domestic violence. The study's findings are seen as a significant advancement in the fight against HIV, with the potential to reduce new infections globally.