07/09/2026
:
Ba Nurse, people are talking about a new HIV injection called lenacapavir. What is it?
:
Lenacapavir is a new HIV prevention medicine. We call it PrEP.
It’s a shot. After the first 2 shots, you only come back *2 times a year* - every 6 months.
It’s for people who do not have HIV but want to stay protected.
:
So I don’t need to take a pill every day? I just come to the clinic twice a year?
:
Yes! That’s the good part.
For people who forget daily pills, this is another choice.
WHO also says it’s a good option to help prevent HIV.
:
Awe! Is it like a vaccine?
:
No. It’s not a vaccine.
It’s medicine that stays in your body and stops HIV if you’re exposed.
:
Does it work 100%? People are saying so.
:
It works very well. In big studies, almost no one got HIV while using it.
But I can’t say 100% for everyone.
It only works well if you *come for every shot on time* and *test for HIV first*.
:
Can I just get the shot without testing?
:
No. You must test for HIV first. Every time.
If you already have HIV and don’t know, this shot alone won’t treat it.
:
Will it protect me from other sicknesses like gonorrhoea or syphilis?
:
No. This shot is only for HIV.
It does NOT stop other STIs.
That’s why condoms and STI testing are still important.
:
Are there side effects? Is it safe?
:
Like all medicine, yes.
Most people get mild pain or a small lump where the shot was given. It goes away.
So far, no big long-term problems have been found. Nurses will keep watching.
:
So after the shot I’m safe for 6 months and I can forget it?
:
No. You must remember your next appointment
If you miss it, your protection drops
