South Africa Approves Twice-Yearly HIV Prevention Vaccine

South Africa has become the first African country and only the third in the world to register a new twice-yearly HIV prevention injection.

Experts estimate that HIV/AIDS could be eradicated in the country within 14 to 18 years if enough people receive the lenacapavir (LEN) jab.

The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has swiftly approved the LEN injection, paving the way for the Department of Health to begin administering it to the public.

The groundbreaking vaccine offers near-complete protection against HIV transmission through sexual contact in HIV-negative adults weighing at least 35 kilograms..

Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi stated that the government intends to incorporate lenacapavir into domestic financing channels.

He added that the manufacturer, Gilead, together with six pharmaceutical companies, will produce the injection for $40 per person per year, a significant reduction from the original $28,000 price.

Motsoaledi stated that pharmaceutical companies, in partnership with agreements involving the Gates Foundation, will produce generic versions, while South Africa is actively developing local manufacturing capabilities.