MWE Correspondent
Kenya has taken a significant step in the fight against HIV by introducing a new long-acting prevention injection that provides protection for up to six months with a single dose.
Health officials say the rollout positions the country among the first in the world to make this extended-coverage option publicly available.
The new injection is designed to help individuals who are at higher risk of exposure reduce their chances of infection without needing to take a daily pill. For many people, maintaining a strict daily medication routine can be difficult. A twice-yearly injection offers a simpler and more discreet alternative, potentially improving consistency and overall effectiveness.
This preventive approach falls under what is known as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a medically approved strategy that significantly lowers the risk of acquiring the virus when used correctly. Long-acting injectable forms of PrEP are increasingly viewed by global health experts as an important innovation in prevention science.
According to Kenya’s Ministry of Health, the injection will be offered free of charge to individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria following medical screening. Authorities stress that access will be guided by professional assessment to ensure it reaches those who would benefit most.
The introduction aligns with global public health recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), which has encouraged countries to adopt new tools to accelerate progress against the epidemic. By expanding prevention options, Kenya aims to reach communities that may face challenges with daily medication adherence.
Public health advocates have welcomed the development, describing it as a practical advancement that could help reduce new infections. However, experts emphasize that the injection does not replace other preventive measures. Regular testing, education and safe health practices remain essential components of comprehensive prevention.
As implementation begins, regional health observers are closely monitoring the impact. If successful, Kenya’s early adoption of the six-month prevention injection could influence broader uptake across Africa and beyond, strengthening international efforts to reduce transmission and improve long-term health outcomes.
