Zambia First in Africa to Launch New HIV Prevention Medication

Zambia has recently introduced a new HIV prevention medication which is set to revolutionise the country's approach to combating the virus.

The medication, known as Cabotegravir long-acting, is administered via injection and provides protection against HIV infection for six months.

Zambia is the first low- or middle-income country to offer this drug to the public. Following the United States, Zambia is now the second country worldwide to receive this medication outside of a research setting.

The target demographic for this medication is adolescent girls and young women aged 16-24 and their sexual partners. Women in Zambia are three times more likely to contract HIV compared to men.

The initiative has received support from the US government, which has donated nearly 15,000 vials of the drug—enough to protect 2,000 Zambians against HIV for one year, according to the US embassy.

Dr. Kebby Kusokotwane of the Zambia National AIDS Council has cautioned that while Cabotegravir is a significant advancement, it is not a "silver bullet" solution. It does not prevent pregnancies or other sexually transmitted infections, and those living with the virus are advised to maintain precautionary measures.

Zambia struggles with significant rates of HIV, with approximately 1.4 million people living with HIV and 33,000 new infections reported annually. The introduction of Cabotegravir brings hope for a reduction in new infections and improved quality of life for those living with the virus.