New HIV prevention shot to be offered at low cost in 120 countries but excludes most of Latin America

A new twice-yearly shot, lenacapavir, has shown 100% effectiveness in preventing HIV infections in women and nearly as effective in men. Gilead will offer it at low cost in 120 poor countries, primarily in Africa and Southeast Asia, but has excluded most of Latin America. Concerns have arisen over the exclusion of countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, where HIV rates are rising. Advocacy groups are urging Gilead to make the generic version available in these regions, highlighting the inequity in access to new prevention tools. While lenacapavir could be produced cheaply, its availability in Latin America remains uncertain. Experts emphasize the need for urgent action to ensure access for marginalized populations facing rising infection rates.