Zambia Receives More Injectable PrEP to Fight HIV
Zambia has taken another step forward in HIV prevention by receiving a second shipment of long-acting injectable PrEP, known as Cabotegravir (CAB-LA).
This shipment of 20,250 vials follows the initial 15,000 received in February 2024, solidifying Zambia’s position as the first African country to offer this innovative treatment.
The injectable PrEP is administered intramuscularly, with the first two doses given four weeks apart, followed by injections every eight weeks.
This extended-release medication offers a significant advantage over traditional daily oral PrEP medications, which can be challenging to adhere to consistently.
Studies have shown that CAB-LA is highly effective, reducing the risk of HIV infection by 79% compared to daily oral PrEP. This additional layer of protection is crucial for Zambia’s fight against HIV.
The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) received the shipment and will distribute the vials to designated healthcare facilities across the country.
“ZAMMSA is happy to note that CAB-LA is a safe and highly effective HIV prevention tool,” said Bradley Chingobe, Senior Manager of Corporate Communications for ZAMMSA. “This will drastically help in mitigating HIV infections across the country.”
Mr. Chingobe said that this initiative is a collaborative effort between the Zambian government, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and healthcare organizations like ZAMMSA.
He says, this demonstrates Zambia’s commitment to providing its citizens with the latest advancements in HIV prevention.
