Health Check HIV prevention drug Lenacapavir recommended by WHO
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Jul 16, 2025 Smitha Mundasad, a BBC health reporter, shares groundbreaking news about Lenacapavir, a bi-annual injection now recommended by the WHO for HIV prevention. She discusses its potential to revolutionize access for high-risk populations while addressing affordability challenges. The conversation also explores Malawi's proactive measures against an mpox outbreak, the surprising discovery of a unique blood type, and the uplifting Cycling Together initiative that empowers women dealing with mental health challenges through cycling.
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Lenacapavir's Transformative Potential
- Lenacapavir is a twice-yearly injection that could transform HIV prevention.
- It offers an alternative to daily pills or bi-monthly injections, reducing stigma and adherence challenges.
Hope to Reduce HIV Infections
- HIV new infections remain high at 1.3 million annually, showing stagnation.
- Lenacapavir brings new hope to significantly reduce these numbers over time.
Malawi's Mpox Vigilance
- Malawi took quick measures to prepare and detect local Mpox cases.
- Airport health teams and community workers actively monitor symptoms to prevent spread.