The Gauteng Department of Health has exceeded its first-month target for the rollout of Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking long-acting HIV prevention injection, marking an early milestone in the province’s fight against new HIV infections.
The department announced that 6,130 eligible people were initiated on Lenacapavir between 8 June and the end of the month, achieving 131% of its monthly target of 4,672 initiations. The rollout forms part of South Africa’s broader strategy to expand HIV prevention options and help end Aids as a public health threat by 2030.
According to the department, Lenacapavir is currently available at 133 public health facilities across Gauteng, all of which have received sufficient stock to continue providing the service.
“The strong early uptake of Lenacapavir demonstrates both the demand for innovative HIV prevention options and the commitment of healthcare workers across the province,” the department said.
Tshwane recorded the highest number of initiations with 2,216 clients, followed by Johannesburg with 1,981 and Ekurhuleni with 1,435. Sedibeng registered 377 initiations, while the West Rand recorded 121.
Health officials said there is enough stock to sustain the programme, with more than 7,400 injection packs and over 7,500 oral tablet packs still available at facilities. A second shipment of 9,830 Lenacapavir packs was delivered to the provincial Medical Supplies Depot on 26 June to support the continued expansion of the programme and ensure uninterrupted access to treatment.
The department, however, stressed that the injection is not a substitute for other HIV prevention methods.
“Lenacapavir does not protect against sexually transmitted infections other than HIV, nor does it prevent unintended pregnancies,” the department said. “Individuals using Lenacapavir are therefore encouraged to continue practising safer sex, including the consistent and correct use of condoms, regular STI screening and continued access to sexual and reproductive health services.”
The department also praised healthcare workers, programme managers and facility teams for driving the successful rollout.
“The department commends healthcare workers, programme managers and facility teams across the province for ensuring that eligible clients can access this important intervention,” it said. “Expanding access to comprehensive HIV prevention services, particularly among populations at increased risk of HIV infection, remains a top priority of the department.”
Cece Smith 