LAGOS, Nigeria -The World Health Organisation (WHO) has officially recommended injectable lenacapavir (LEN) as a new pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) option, marking what experts describe as a turning point in global HIV prevention.
The announcement was made at the 13th International AIDS Society Conference (IAS 2025) in Kigali, Rwanda on Monday.
“This is a major advancement in the fight against HIV, offering people at risk a highly effective and convenient prevention tool,” WHO officials declared.
Unlike daily oral PrEP pills, lenacapavir requires only two injections per year, addressing challenges of adherence, stigma, and limited healthcare access. Experts say this long-acting option could significantly reduce new infections.
In 2024, an estimated 1.3 million people contracted HIV worldwide, with infections disproportionately affecting sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, and people who inject drugs. WHO believes the new guidelines will expand prevention choices for these high-risk groups.
“By diversifying strategies, we are giving people more flexible and accessible options to protect themselves,” the agency said.
Alongside LEN, WHO issued updated service delivery guidance, including the use of simplified rapid HIV test kits and integrated care for conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and mental health.
