WHO Recommends New HIV Prevention Shot for Global Fight Against HIV
The World Health Organization is urging countries to use lenacapavir, a newly approved HIV drug, for prevention efforts. The recommendation comes amid concerns over funding for global HIV programs. Lenacapavir has shown promising results in reducing infection risk and providing protection against HIV. The WHO is working with countries to support the implementation of this new prevention tool.

The World Health Organization now recommends including the newly approved HIV drug lenacapavir in prevention efforts, especially for high-risk groups and areas with high HIV burden. Lenacapavir was approved by the US FDA for twice-yearly injection to prevent HIV. It was found to dramatically reduce infection risk and provide almost total protection in trials.
Dr. Meg Doherty from WHO stated that lenacapavir should be offered as an additional prevention choice for at-risk individuals. Rapid diagnostic tests can be used with long-acting medication for HIV prevention. HIV primarily spreads through unprotected sex or sharing needles, affecting the immune system and leading to AIDS.
Concerns have been raised about funding for global HIV prevention, with the US reducing foreign assistance. Gilead Sciences has partnered with the Global Fund to provide lenacapavir at no profit for up to two million people in low-income countries. The drug's annual list price in the US is $28,218 for HIV prevention.
The UN warned of potential increase in HIV-related deaths by 2029 if funding disappears. Some countries have seen a decline in HIV services due to funding cuts, impacting access to prevention and treatment.
This crisis requires global solidarity and increased funding to prevent further HIV-related deaths and infections.
According to the source: CNN.
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