Benue State Launches Lenacapavir for HIV Prevention

On Wednesday, the Benue State Government officially launched lenacapavir, a long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention, as announced by Dr. Paul Ogwuch, the state's health commissioner.

This launch is considered a historic turning point in Benue State's HIV response, which has primarily relied on daily oral PrEP. Lenacapavir will be administered biannually, providing a discreet and convenient option for high-risk populations, including adolescent girls, young women, and serodiscordant couples.

The HIV prevalence in Benue State is reported at 4.7%, one of the highest in Nigeria, underscoring the urgent need for innovative interventions. The launch is part of a commitment to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030, with plans for equitable access to services in both urban and rural communities.

The event was attended by various partners, including the World Health Organization and Nigeria Aid, and emphasized the importance of community engagement and data-driven monitoring to ensure effective outcomes.