Groundbreaking HIV prevention injection is a major step for Northern Ireland's LGBTQ+ community

A new injectable medication offering long-term HIV prevention is poised to revolutionize public health strategies in Northern Ireland, with LGBTQ+ advocates hailing its potential to significantly reduce new transmissions and combat stigma.

The injectable PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), Cabotegravir, is being rolled out across Northern Ireland in the coming weeks as an alternative to the daily tablet form of PrEP. This innovative approach, administered every few months, promises increased accessibility and adherence, particularly for individuals who face challenges with daily medication routines.

The Rainbow Project, Northern Ireland's leading LGBTQ+ health organization, has lauded the new injection as a "game changer" in the fight against HIV, The Irish News reports. The organization estimates that between 1,000 and 2,000 individuals are currently living with HIV in Northern Ireland, with approximately 50 new transmissions occurring annually.

Scott Cuthbertson, CEO of The Rainbow Project, emphasized the importance of this development in achieving the goal of ending new HIV transmissions by 2030. "Providing more accessible options for HIV prevention brings us one step closer to that goal," he stated. Cuthbertson also stressed the need for continued efforts in HIV prevention and treatment education, stigma reduction, and increased sexual health testing.

Alexa Moore, also from The Rainbow Project, highlighted the barriers some individuals face in accessing existing PrEP options, particularly those experiencing homelessness or struggling with daily routines. "This injection could potentially be a game changer for prevention," Moore noted.

Moore further emphasized the significant role of stigma in hindering prevention efforts. "The problem is maybe people not wanting to go to get tested or to be aware of their status and maybe people just don’t know about PrEP," she explained. She also celebrated the progress made in HIV treatment, stating, "If we look back to 40-50 years ago, back then it (HIV) was a death sentence. Now, people live happy, healthy and long lives, living with HIV."

The introduction of injectable PrEP has been met with enthusiasm from the LGBTQ+ community and those at high risk of HIV transmission. Moore concluded, "It is being seen as a game changer. I think people are really excited about this… it has really energized and animated the community and particularly those at a high risk… we could end new HIV transmissions for 2030 and that’s an exciting prospect."