Injectable ARVs give hope to fighting HIV :: Mmegi Online

The announcement that government will roll out an injectable ARV, has brought hope and smiles to people living with HIV. The thought of not having to take an ARV pill every day is a dream come true to many. Mmegi correspondent NNASARETHA KGAMANYANE writes

The Minister of Health (MoH) Edwin Dikoloti announced that Botswana has approved the use of injectable anti-retroviral drugs to improve adherence to HIV treatment, becoming just the second country in Africa to do so. Taking a pill every day at a particular time is not only emotionally draining to people living with HIV but also an inconvenience to others. Many people have defaulted due fear of discrimination and stigma, as well other personal circumstances which make taking a pill every day inconvenient.

The injectable ARV can be taken once every two months, meaning just six injections, as opposed to the daily ARV pill.

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