Health 20 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Warns Lenacapavir HIV Drug Users Against Risky Behavior
Health officials in Uganda have cautioned recipients of the new twice-yearly injectable HIV prevention drug Lenacapavir to avoid reckless sexual activity, despite its over 99% effectiveness shown in trials. The rollout began in Lira City, emphasizing combined prevention strategies alongside the shots. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/new-hiv-drug-recipients-warned-against-recklessness-5430332
Uganda has rolled out Lenacapavir, a revolutionary injectable for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) that requires just two shots per year in the abdomen or thigh. Clinical trials in Uganda and South Africa confirmed its effectiveness exceeds 99% in preventing infections.
The launch occurred on April 17 in Lira City, a high-prevalence area, with free doses now available at 103 health facilities, including all regional referral hospitals.
Dr. Robert Mutumba, head of the Aids Control Programme, stressed that Lenacapavir is no magic solution. He warned users to remain mindful of unintended pregnancies, which could lead to unsafe abortions, and noted it offers no protection against other STIs like Hepatitis B, Chlamydia, or Gonorrhoea.
“Comprehensive prevention is key, beyond just the injection,” Mutumba emphasized.
Health Commissioner Dr. Richard Kabanda raised concerns about declining risk awareness among youth due to such innovations, urging efforts to boost HIV risk perception.
Minister of Health Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng hailed it as a game-changer, especially for those struggling with daily pills. She highlighted progress: new infections dropped from 96,000 in 2010 to 37,000 by 2025, with 1.4 million on treatment. Yet, about 100 daily new cases persist, 33 among young people, mostly girls and women.
Aceng reaffirmed commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 via integrated approaches, including the ABC strategy—abstinence, being faithful, and condom use—plus regular, free HIV testing.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)