Gilead Confirms HIV Prevention Program Will Continue in Low-Income Countries — Check What It Means Amid Funding Concerns

Gilead Confirms HIV Prevention Program: In a major win for global health equity, Gilead Sciences has confirmed that its groundbreaking HIV prevention program will continue in low-income countries, even amid growing concerns over U.S. global health aid funding.

At the center of the announcement? Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable that’s turning heads in the medical world for its near-perfect prevention rates against HIV — and its promise to reach millions in need, even in the world’s most underserved areas.

Gilead Confirms HIV Prevention Program

Gilead’s commitment to rolling out lenacapavir, despite looming funding cuts, represents a monumental moment in the fight against HIV. With its promise of long-lasting protection and accessible pricing, this twice-a-year shot could redefine HIV prevention for millions in low-income countries.

But science alone won’t win this battle — it needs funding, political will, and people like you pushing for change.

A Quick Look Back: HIV Prevention Through the Years

Since the early 1980s, the HIV/AIDS epidemic has claimed more than 40 million lives worldwide. The biggest weapon in the fight? Prevention. From the rise of condom campaigns in the 90s to daily oral PrEP pills in the 2010s (like Truvada), the science has advanced.

Now, lenacapavir brings a new era of simplicity: just two injections per year, offering the same protection — or better — than taking 365 pills annually.

“In our communities, people are tired. Tired of stigma, tired of pills, tired of fear. Lenacapavir gives us hope and freedom.”
— Dr. Janet Ouma, HIV program lead, Kisumu, Kenya

What Is Lenacapavir — and How Does It Work?

Lenacapavir is a long-acting HIV prevention shot (PrEP) designed for biannual use. Here’s how it works:

• It’s injected under the skin (subcutaneous).
• It prevents HIV from entering or replicating in immune cells.
• One shot lasts for 6 months.

It’s the first PrEP option with such long-lasting effects and is especially suited for people in remote or high-stigma areas.

Who Will Benefit?

Target Countries:

Gilead’s program will prioritize 18 countries, including:

• South Africa
• Mozambique
• Zimbabwe
• Kenya
• Nigeria
• Uganda
• Malawi

These regions report some of the highest HIV infection rates globally, with young women and adolescent girls disproportionately affected.

In sub-Saharan Africa, 1 in 4 new HIV infections occur in girls aged 15–24 (UNAIDS).

Will It Be Affordable?

Yes — at least for now. Gilead will:

• Offer lenacapavir at cost for 2–3 years
• License six generic drugmakers to produce low-cost alternatives
• Work with local ministries of health and NGOs to distribute the drug

That said, the rollout still depends on the stability of global health aid, which is under threat.

What’s Going On With HIV Program Funding?

Gilead’s move comes at a time when funding for PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) is in jeopardy. Once a bipartisan success story that helped cut global HIV deaths by over 60%, PEPFAR is now stalled in U.S. Congress over political disagreements.

This creates uncertainty for:

• National HIV prevention programs
• NGOs that depend on U.S. aid
• Distribution and education campaigns

“This is a wake-up call. We can’t let short-term politics destroy 20 years of HIV progress.”
— Ambassador Mark Dybul, former PEPFAR coordinator

Daily Pill vs. Injection — What’s the Difference?

Rollout Timeline — What Happens Next?

Estimated Timeline:

• Now – June 2025: Final FDA review (U.S.)
• Summer 2025: Start of public health partnerships & training
• Late 2025 – Early 2026: First injections delivered in priority countries
• By 2027: Full generic supply chain in place

Voices from the Ground

In interviews with health workers and advocates across Africa:

“This gives us a tool we’ve been begging for — one that meets our patients where they are.”
— Amina Yusuf, HIV counselor, Lagos, Nigeria

“Lenacapavir could protect the girls who never even get the chance to finish high school.”
— Lindiwe Shabangu, educator, Johannesburg, South Africa

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How Can Health Professionals Prepare?

For Clinicians:

• Review CDC PrEP Guidelines
• Monitor FDA approvals & updates
• Prepare for counseling on injection-based PrEP

For NGOs & Outreach Workers:

• Start education campaigns now
• Train staff on injection protocols
• Set up stigma-free clinics

Additional Resources for Professionals

• Gilead Lenacapavir Program Details
• UNAIDS Global HIV Reports
• CDC HIV Prevention Tools
• AVAC Advocacy Toolkit

FAQs About Gilead Confirms HIV Prevention Program

Q: When will lenacapavir be available?
A: FDA decision expected by June 19, 2025. Global rollout begins later this year.

Q: Is it better than oral PrEP?
A: For many, yes — especially those who struggle with daily pills.

Q: What if PEPFAR funding is cut?
A: Gilead plans to move forward regardless, thanks to generic licensing.

Q: Will this be free for patients?
A: In many countries, yes — through public programs and partnerships.

Q: Can teens take it?
A: Yes. Trials include adolescents, a major priority group.

What Can YOU Do to Help?

You don’t have to be a doctor to make a difference. Here’s how to support global HIV prevention:

• Contact your local representative to support PEPFAR
• Donate to trusted global health NGOs like Partners in Health
• Share this article to raise awareness
• Talk about PrEP and HIV stigma in your community