The Ebonyi State government has identified with the global movement against the Human Immuno Virus/ Acquired Immuned Deficiency Syndrome ( HIV/AIDS) with the launch of the Lenacapavir Pre –Exposure Prophylaxis (Len PrEP) injection.
The antiretroviral injection is administered once in six months and is confirmed effective for HIV prevention.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Moses Ekuma said during the launch at the general hospital Ezzangbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area (LGA) that the innovation was a major advancement in HIV prevention.
Ekuma said that the twice– annual administered injection was a better alternative to the daily oral PrEp.
” HIV is a public health concern especially among young people in an already vulnerable population.
“The state has been proactive in preventing new infections despite challenges such as stigmatisation, poor adherence to daily medication among others.”
The commissioner remarked that
Len-PrEP is not a replacement for other HIV preventive measures.
“The innovation is part of comprehensive prevention strategies such testing, condom usage, behavioral interventions and treatment services.
“I thank the Minister of Health, Prof Ali Pate, the National AIDS Sexually Transmitted Infections Control and Hepatitis Programme (NASCP) for selecting Ebonyi among the eight pilot states to rollout the prevention option.
“This demonstrates commitment to adopting evidence–based innovations that would improve the health and well-being of our people.”
He acknowledged the contributions of global developmental partners for their efforts to end HIV/AIDS and eulogised Governor Francis Nwifuru and wife for their immeasurable investments in the state’s health sector.
The Permanent Secretary of the state Ministry of Health, Dr Lawrence Ezeogo praised the new HIV prevention revolution, describing it as a game changer for adherence and stigma reduction.
The Director, Public Health in the ministry, Dr Hyacinth Ebenyi urged Ebonyi people especially those at substantial risk of HIV infection, to take advantage of the opportunity to reduce infection rates.
The state AIDS Programme Coordinator, Mr Clement Ogodo gave an overview of the preventive injection, noting that it can be accessed at eight designated facilities.
“The facilities include the Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital Abakalikii, General Hospital Ezzangbo, General Hospital Onueke, Ebonyi State University (EBSU ) Community among others.
“We will enlighten the people adequately on the injection and the need to access it.”
Development partners such as the NASCP, CARITAS organisation among others, gave their goodwill messages at the occasion.
