Nigeria TV Info — News Report

In a major advancement for global HIV prevention, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has officially recommended injectable lenacapavir (LEN) as a new pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) option.

Announced at the 13th International AIDS Society Conference (IAS 2025) in Kigali, Rwanda, the new guidelines mark a transformative moment in the fight against HIV.

According to the WHO, lenacapavir – which is administered every six months – has shown high efficacy in preventing HIV infection among people at substantial risk. This long-acting option is expected to significantly improve adherence compared to daily oral PrEP, which remains a challenge in many communities.

Public health experts have praised the decision, stressing that a twice-yearly injection could help bridge critical gaps in HIV prevention, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In addition, the WHO emphasised the importance of countries updating their national HIV programs to include LEN and ensure equitable access.

Speaking at the conference, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the recommendation as “a turning point” and urged governments and stakeholders to act quickly to make the new option available.

The introduction of LEN is part of a broader effort to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Global health agencies say that the integration of innovative tools like lenacapavir, combined with continued access to testing and treatment, will be crucial to reaching that goal.