Masaka Introduces 6-Month HIV Prevention Injection Amidst Rising Infections

Health facilities in Uganda’s Masaka sub-region are now offering injectable Lenacapavir (LEN), a long-acting medication for HIV prevention. This initiative aims to provide an effective alternative to daily oral regimens, especially for individuals at high risk of contracting the virus.

Robert Bbosa, a specialist with the Infectious Diseases Institute, highlighted that while the demand for LEN is high, initial supplies are limited, with only a few facilities receiving doses in this first phase. “People are turning up in big numbers to get the product,” Bbosa noted, encouraging residents to also focus on behavioral changes that reduce exposure to HIV.

Several key health centers, including Masaka Regional Referral Hospital and Sembabule Health Centre III, have received allocations of LEN. However, some, like Sembabule and Kasensero, have already reported stockouts, underscoring the need for wider distribution. The Masaka-Wakiso cluster is benefiting from the initial rollout, with five facilities in Masaka and 21 in Wakiso.

Health officials are prioritizing expectant mothers, adolescents, and vulnerable groups such as people who use drugs and those affected by domestic violence for the new injection. This comes as the Greater Masaka sub-region recorded over 8,000 new HIV infections in the last six months, with a significant number among females and children.

Dr. Faith Nakiyimba, Masaka District Health Officer, expressed concern over complacency and the high number of new infections, but voiced optimism that LEN could significantly boost prevention efforts. She noted that oral PrEP adherence has been a challenge, making the injectable option a potentially more effective solution for some.

LEN is administered via injection in the abdomen, followed by oral tablets for the first dose. Subsequent doses only require the injection, offering six months of protection. It is important to note that LEN is a preventive medication, not a vaccine. Masaka has historically faced a high HIV burden, with prevalence rates remaining in the 8-10% range over the past decade.

For further details, please refer to the Daily Monitor.