Early next year, Zimbabwe is set to commence its initial rollout of a long-acting injectable HIV prevention drug, with approximately 46,500 individuals slated to begin treatment. This is the first injectable drug for pre-exposure prophylaxis of HIV (PrEP), with a course consisting of two injections per year providing protection for six months.
According to
The Herald, a partner of TV BRICS, this new option offers a long-term alternative that could significantly improve prevention outcomes. The drug is aimed at adolescent girls and young women who find it difficult to adhere to a daily pill use.
National HIV Prevention Coordinator Getrude Ncube said the country rapidly approved the new drug and became the third African country to adopt it. She added Zimbabwe is preparing for the phased introduction of HIV vaccination, with the first shipment of doses expected in January.
“Since then, we have identified 40 initial rollout sites, completed site readiness assessments, and conducted training of trainers. […] We are now ready to implement once the doses arrive,” said Getrude Ncube.
Experts claimed that priority distribution is based on national data and the country’s logistical capabilities. Vaccines will be directed to areas with high HIV prevalence, the highest number of new infections, and high use of PrEP between 2023 and 2025.
This approach will ensure maximum coverage of both urban and rural areas, as well as the most vulnerable groups, including adolescent girls, young women, and pregnant and breastfeeding women, states the source.
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