Experimental HIV vaccine advances as Brazil moves to adopt injectable PrEP

Researchers from the Scripps Research Institute, IAVI, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and Emory University reported the first demonstration that a germline‑targeting HIV vaccine can elicit broadly neutralising antibodies in rhesus macaques. The study, published in *Nature* and presented at the International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro, aims to train the immune system to attack conserved parts of the virus that rarely mutate.

At the same conference Brazil's Ministry of Health announced that it will request the incorporation of a long‑acting injectable form of pre‑exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) into the public health system (SUS). Health Minister Alexandre Padilha said the move will expand prevention options for people who struggle with daily oral regimens. The request will be reviewed by the national technology‑incorporation committee (Conitec) in August. The injectable PrEP, approved by ANVISA in 2023, offers up to 99 % protection when used correctly but is currently only available privately at a high cost.

Vincent Muturi‑Kioi of IAVI emphasised that “the goal is not to control the epidemic, the goal is to eliminate it,” highlighting the vaccine’s potential to complement new prevention tools such as injectable PrEP.