Residents of Orange Farm are being encouraged to take advantage of Lenacapavir, a new long-acting HIV prevention injection that was officially launched at Stretford Community Health Centre (CHC) on 9 June.
Lenacapavir is a pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) injection designed to help prevent HIV infection. Unlike daily PrEP tablets, the injection is administered only twice a year, making it a convenient option for people who struggle to take medication consistently.
One of the first patients to receive the injection was pregnant mother Sizakele Shabalala, who shared her experience after receiving the treatment.
“As a pregnant woman, I felt no major discomfort. There was only a little pain during the injection, but it did not last long. It has not affected my pregnancy in any way. If the side effects remain manageable, I will definitely consider coming back after six months for my next dose,” Shabalala said.
According to Sr Samkelisiwe Zwane from Stretford CHC, the introduction of Lenacapavir aims to improve HIV prevention efforts by offering a long-lasting alternative to daily medication.
“Many people forget to take their medication every day, and South Africa continues to face a high number of HIV and AIDS cases. This injection provides a convenient option because it is administered only twice a year,” Zwane explained.
She said patients receive two injections during each visit, one on the left side and one on the right side. For pregnant women, however, the injections are administered in the buttocks.
“Patients return after six months to receive their next dose,” Zwane added.
Nthabiseng Kekana, who works for PATA under the HIGH Project and is a supporting partner to the Department of Health in the rollout of Lenacapavir PrEP at Stretford CHC, stressed that the injection only protects against HIV and does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
“I’m here at Stretford CHC as a supporting partner for the Department of Health in the rollout of the Lenacapavir PrEP injection. People need to understand that receiving this injection does not mean they are protected from other sexually transmitted infections. They still need to use condoms and practise safe sex to protect themselves from other STIs,” said Kekana.
The launch forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen HIV prevention programmes in Orange Farm and provide residents with more accessible and effective healthcare options.
