The Management of Bishop Murray Medical Centre, Makurdi, has received a consignment of injectable lenacapavir for HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to boost HIV prevention in the State.
- +FG donates HIV-prevention drug to Catholic hospital in Benue
Peter Paleve, Health Coordinator of the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, the Benue State Capital, who received the drugs, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for the donation.
Peter Paleve, Health Coordinator of the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, the Benue State Capital, who received the drugs, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for the donation.
Paleve described the arrival of lenacapavir as a relief for many, noting that the six-monthly injection would address challenges of adherence associated with daily pill use.
“The injectable PrEP, which is administered once every six months, is intended strictly for individuals who are HIV-negative and are at substantial risk of contracting HIV.”
It also provides an alternative to the daily oral PrEP regimen currently in use.
“We are grateful to the Federal Government for this intervention. For many of our clients who struggle with daily medication, this long-acting option is a relief and will encourage more people to stay protected,” he said.
Despite taking delivery of the drug, the Priest in charge of Bishop Murray Medical Centre, confirmed that the Federal Government had directed the facility to wait for further directives before commencing Administration of lenacapavir to clients.
He assured the public that the Centre would comply fully with all protocols from the Federal Ministry of Health and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA).
“We have received the drugs, but we will not begin usage until we are officially authorized. We urge members of the public who may be eligible to remain patient while we await the go-ahead,” he said.
Udam Samuel, a Medical Staff Member, in a statement for Management, outlined what people need to know about lenacapavir PrEP and those eligible. They include persons who have tested HIV-negative and have been clinically assessed as being at risk of HIV infection.
On dosage, he said the drug is given as an injection once every six months, after initial starting doses, making it one of the longest-acting PrEP options available. He added that the purpose of PrEP is for prevention: “It does not treat HIV and must not be used by persons who are HIV-positive.”
BusinessDay gathered that Bishop Murray Medical Centre, a faith-based hospital under the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, has been a key provider of HIV testing, counseling, and prevention services in Benue State.
“The Management said it will sensitise the public and begin enrollment as soon as the Federal Government issues approval for rollout,” he added.
