Zimbabwe has made significant progress in the fight against HIV by introducing a groundbreaking HIV prevention injection that lasts for two months. This revolutionary drug, Injectable cabotegravir (CAB_LA), is now available for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), marking a new era in HIV prevention by providing a convenient and powerful method of preventing HIV transmission among individuals at high risk.

The New Start Centre in Harare recently welcomed its first recipient of this life-changing treatment, signaling a major advancement in public health. While the HIV prevention injection is offered for free, its availability is currently limited, and the criteria for selecting recipients remain unclear. Additionally, the injection is not yet available at public hospitals and can only be accessed through Population Solutions for Health at New Start Centres.

The introduction of CAB_LA has sparked excitement and curiosity among the Zimbabwean population, with social media platforms abuzz with discussions and opinions. Some users have humorously likened the injection to a ‘Depo’ shot, while others are seeking information on its availability, potential side effects, and implications for treatment guidelines. There is also a growing interest in similar advancements for the treatment of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

As Zimbabwe embraces this innovative approach to HIV prevention, efforts are being made to ensure that CAB_LA is accessible to a wider audience, particularly those at high risk of HIV transmission. The country is moving towards a future where cutting-edge biomedical interventions like CAB_LA play a crucial role in reducing the spread of HIV and improving public health outcomes.