NACA and WHO urge media to combat HIV misinformation in Nigeria

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and the World Health Organization have called on journalists and social media influencers to combat misinformation and stigma regarding HIV. During a training session in Lagos, NACA Director-General Dr. Temitope Ilori warned that sensationalist reporting could discourage individuals from accessing essential health services.

Dr. Ilori clarified that while there is currently no cure for HIV, effective prevention and treatment strategies are available. She highlighted Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as a vital tool for HIV-negative individuals at risk. Available options in Nigeria include daily oral pills, injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) administered every two months, and a pilot program for lenacapavir (LenPrEP), which is administered once every six months.

The lenacapavir option is currently being introduced through a pilot study and is available free of charge to eligible individuals at participating health facilities, as it is not yet commercially available in the country.