The Gauteng Department of Health has exceeded its initial target for the rollout of Lenacapavir, a new HIV prevention injection, recording more than 6,100 initiations during the first month of implementation across the province.
According to the department, a total of 6,130 eligible clients were initiated on Lenacapavir between 8 June and the end of June, surpassing the provincial monthly target of 4,672 initiations by 31%.
The department described the rollout as a significant milestone in the province’s HIV prevention programme.
“Since the commencement of the phased rollout on 08 June 2026, a total of 6 130 eligible clients have been initiated on Lenacapavir across Gauteng, representing 131% of the provincial monthly target of 4 672 initiations,” the department said.
Lenacapavir is being introduced as part of South Africa’s broader strategy to reduce new HIV infections and advance efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. The medication is offered to HIV-negative individuals who are considered to be at substantial risk of acquiring HIV.
The department said the treatment is currently available at 133 public health facilities across Gauteng, all of which have received sufficient stock to support demand.
Tshwane recorded the highest uptake with 2,216 initiations, followed by Johannesburg with 1,981 and Ekurhuleni with 1,435. Sedibeng accounted for 377 initiations, while the West Rand recorded 121.
The department attributed the strong performance to the efforts of healthcare workers and facility teams who have been driving implementation across the province.
“The Department has noted strong early uptake of Lenacapavir services across all five health districts in the province,” the statement said.
To ensure continuity of the programme, Gauteng health authorities said adequate stock remains available. Provincial monitoring data shows that more than 7,400 injection packs and over 7,500 oral tablet packs are currently available at reporting facilities.
In addition, a further 9,830 Lenacapavir packs were delivered to the provincial Medical Supplies Depot on 26 June to support the expansion of the programme.
The department reiterated that while the medicine represents an important breakthrough in HIV prevention, it should not be regarded as a substitute for other protective measures.
“While Lenacapavir offers an important additional option for HIV prevention, it should not be viewed as a replacement for other prevention methods,” the department said.
Health officials also cautioned that the medicine does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections or unintended pregnancies.
“The Department reminds members of the public that Lenacapavir does not protect against sexually transmitted infections other than HIV, nor does it prevent unintended pregnancies.”
The department urged users of the medication to continue practising safer sex, including the consistent and correct use of condoms, regular STI screening and access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services.
IOL
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za
