Kenya is set to begin the national rollout of the long-acting HIV prevention injection, Lenacapavir, on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
However, not everyone at risk will qualify. The Programs Officer, Nascop, Ruth Kamau, argued that Lenacapavir will only be given to individuals who test HIV negative and have not had possible exposure to the virus within the past 72 hours.
“You can be at HIV risk, even at ongoing risk, but you are not eligible. Everybody who is at risk is eligible. Eligible is a clinical decision made by a health care provider,” said Ruth Kamau.
When administered correctly, Lenacapavir is up to 96% effective, and individuals will receive two injections every six months, alongside oral tablets taken on the first two days of initiation.
Lenacapavir Guidelines for Men Using Viagra
Individuals using any other medications, including Tuberculosis (TB) and sexual performance enhancement drugs, are advised to disclose to health experts before being administered lenacapavir.
This is to avoid altering the functionality of the HIV Prevention injection.
Also Read: Kenya to Introduce Long-Acting HIV Prevention Drug in Landmark Move
According to Elizabeth Irungu, the regional technical advisor for implementation science and PrEP service delivery at Jhpiego, those on Viagra will be required to start with a lower dose.
“For Viagra, or people who are using medications for erectile dysfunction, for instance, the recommendation is to begin with a lower dose of the Viagra,” said Elizabeth Irungu.
She added that individuals on TB medication will require supplemental doses of Lenacapavir to match the faster reaction of the injection.
“So we’ll give extra doses of Lenacapavir. Because TB treatment involves TB drugs, they will break down your Lenacapavir faster,” said Elizabeth Irungu.
The First 15 Counties to Receive HIV Prevention Injection
Kenya has received 21,000 starter doses of Lenacapavir, a Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for the initial rollout in priority counties.
According to the Minister of Health, Aden Duale, 15 counties were previously announced as recipients of Lenacapavir, the HIV Prevention Injection, for the first phase.
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They include Mombasa, Kilifi, Machakos, Nairobi, Kajiado, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Kakamega, Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Migori, Homa Bay, Kisii, and Kiambu.
The remaining 17 counties will be covered in the final phase to ensure nationwide access over time.
Duale also said an additional 12,000 continuation doses are expected by April to ensure those who start the prevention injections can continue without interruption.
“We also expect an additional 12,000 continuation doses by April, to ensure that those who start the prevention injections can continue without interruption,” read part of the statement.
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