The Gauteng Department of Health has launched the rollout of Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention injection administered once every six months, in a major step aimed at strengthening HIV prevention efforts across the province. The injection is now available at 133 healthcare facilities, offering residents an additional option to protect themselves against HIV infection.
Today Health officials conducted awareness and initiation campaigns at healthcare facilities, including Chiawelo Community Health Centre in Soweto. The programme is targeting young people, key populations, sex workers, people who inject drugs and other groups who may be at higher risk of HIV infection. Officials say the new prevention method provides a more convenient alternative for individuals who struggle with daily HIV prevention medication.
The department’s health promotion teams and nurses are also educating communities about how Lenacapavir works, its benefits and the importance of combination HIV prevention. Residents are being encouraged to continue regular HIV testing and make use of other prevention services to reduce their risk of infection.
The Gauteng Department of Health has stressed that Lenacapavir is not a replacement for existing HIV prevention measures. Before receiving the injection, individuals must first undergo an HIV test and be assessed by healthcare workers to determine whether the treatment is suitable for them. The department says the injection forms part of a comprehensive HIV prevention package that includes regular testing, condom use and other proven interventions.
Residents in the City of Tshwane can access Lenacapavir at selected clinics and community health centres, including Atteridgeville Clinic, Dark City Community Health Centre, Hercules Clinic, Laudium Community Health Centre, Mamelodi West Clinic, Soshanguve Community Health Centre, Saulsville Clinic and Temba Community Health Centre, among others
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