Guyana's health minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, says the country plans to buy lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention drug that works for six months. The medication currently costs around $25,000 in the US, but authorities want to wait until the patent expires in a year or two to get cheaper access.
Anthony explained that making lenacapavir available could be huge for HIV care, and officials are talking with partners about getting the drug. If they can score it at a lower price, the government would give it out for free. A deal in South Africa has already arranged a $40 version that will hit 120 countries by 2027.
Guyana recorded 449 new HIV cases last year. About 95% of people there know their status, though not everyone who tests positive gets treatment yet. The government wants everyone on meds to reach viral suppression, which stops transmission entirely.
Anthony explained that making lenacapavir available could be huge for HIV care, and officials are talking with partners about getting the drug. If they can score it at a lower price, the government would give it out for free. A deal in South Africa has already arranged a $40 version that will hit 120 countries by 2027.
Guyana recorded 449 new HIV cases last year. About 95% of people there know their status, though not everyone who tests positive gets treatment yet. The government wants everyone on meds to reach viral suppression, which stops transmission entirely.
