BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE– Eswatini is strengthening its response to HIV through the rollout of innovative prevention methods that are giving people more effective ways to protect themselves from infection, with healthcare professionals urging emaSwati to take advantage of the life-saving services available across the country.
Speaking on Eswatini TV’s Kusile Breakfast Show on July 16, 2026, Sibusisile Masilela, a healthcare professional with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Eswatini, said biomedical HIV prevention has evolved significantly, providing individuals with a wider range of safe and highly effective options tailored to different lifestyles and levels of risk.
Masilela said understanding the differences between Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and the newly introduced long-acting injectable Lenacapavir is critical to ensuring people choose the right prevention method.
“PrEP is taken before exposure to HIV to prevent infection, while PEP is emergency medication taken after someone has potentially been exposed to the virus. Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable form of PrEP given to HIV-negative individuals to provide long-term protection against HIV,” she explained.
She said the availability of several prevention methods marks another milestone in Eswatini’s efforts to reduce new HIV infections and safeguard the health of communities.
Masilela noted that while all HIV prevention methods are effective when used correctly, adherence remains the key to success. She explained that the vaginal PrEP ring provides approximately 50 per cent protection, making it essential for women using the ring to continue practising safer sex by using condoms for additional protection.
“Daily oral PrEP tablets and injectable PrEP provide between 96 and 99 per cent protection when used consistently. Missing daily tablets for five consecutive days or longer significantly reduces that protection,” she said.
She further explained that Event-Driven PrEP, which is taken around anticipated sexual activity instead of every day, is currently recommended only for men and has not yet been approved for women.
Masilela emphasised that HIV testing is a mandatory requirement before anyone can receive Lenacapavir or any other form of PrEP.
“Every person must first test HIV-negative before starting PrEP or receiving Lenacapavir. If the injection is given to someone who is already HIV-positive, the virus can develop resistance to treatment, making future HIV management much more difficult,” she cautioned.
She said Eswatini’s national guidelines empower young people to access HIV prevention services, with individuals aged 16 years and above able to obtain HIV testing and PrEP without parental consent. Children aged 12 years and older may also access these services if healthcare providers determine they have the maturity to make informed decisions about their health.
Addressing concerns over side effects, Masilela said Lenacapavir is generally well tolerated, with the most common reactions being temporary pain, swelling or small nodules around the injection site.
“These side effects are usually mild and manageable. If swelling becomes severe, applying an ice pack about a week after the injection can help reduce the discomfort,” she said.
Turning to Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), Masilela stressed the importance of acting quickly following possible HIV exposure.
“PEP must be started within 72 hours after possible exposure to HIV, but we strongly encourage people to seek medical attention within the first 24 hours because the earlier treatment begins, the greater the chance of preventing infection,” she said.
She added that HIV testing is compulsory before PEP can be prescribed and that healthcare facilities continue to provide comprehensive pre-test and post-test counselling, regardless of the outcome.
Masilela said clinics also use appointment booking and follow-up systems to help clients adhere to treatment schedules and receive continuous support throughout their HIV prevention journey.
She encouraged emaSwati to visit their nearest healthcare facility to learn more about the HIV prevention options available, saying informed decisions and timely access to prevention services remain vital to sustaining Eswatini’s progress in the fight against HIV.
“The tools to prevent HIV are available. The important thing is for people to know their options, get tested and use the prevention method that best suits their circumstances. Prevention remains one of our strongest weapons against HIV,” Masilela said.
As Eswatini continues to build on its achievements in the national HIV response, healthcare professionals believe increased awareness, early intervention and wider uptake of biomedical prevention methods will play a crucial role in driving down new infections and securing a healthier future for all.
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(Courtesy Pic)
