The recent launch of the guidelines for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PreP) for HIV by the Kenya Ministry of Health presents an excellent opportunity to rewrite the HIV prevention landscape in Kenya. PreP, currently available as a daily pill, and hopefully as a long acting injection in the near future, is highly effective if used in combination with other options to reduce the risk of getting HIV from an HIV-infected sex partner.
As a life-saving intervention, it’s been long in coming mainly due to the rigorous research that was required to make sure that it was effective and safe to use. Part of this research was done in Kenya, and our own Kenyan scientists have made history through their contribution in generating the necessary evidence to enable the Kenya government to embrace this new initiative. As part of the Kenya Prevention Revolution Roadmap, PreP is a game changer and is good news for the HIV prevention community.