Easier protection against HIV
People in England and Wales will soon be able to get a new long-lasting HIV prevention jab on the NHS. It’s the first time the treatment, called Apretude, has been approved for use by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
The jab, developed by ViiV Healthcare, offers protection from HIV with just one injection every two months after an initial loading period. It’s the first and only long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) available on the NHS, giving people an alternative to taking a pill every day.
NICE’s decision follows earlier approval by the Scottish Medicines Consortium, meaning the treatment will now be available across the whole of the UK.
A step forward in prevention
Clinical trials found that Apretude was more effective than the standard daily oral PrEP tablets currently in use. In large studies involving thousands of participants, the jab reduced new HIV infections by up to 90% compared with those who took daily pills.
The medicine is produced at GSK’s manufacturing site in Barnard Castle, County Durham. Researchers say its long-acting nature could make HIV prevention simpler and more accessible, particularly for people who find it difficult to remember daily medication.
Julie Guest, General Manager of ViiV Healthcare UK, said the decision marked “a major step forward in HIV prevention” and would give people “more choice to stay protected.”
Closing the gap in access
Despite progress, experts say the UK is not yet on track to meet its goal of ending new HIV transmissions by 2030. Cases have fallen overall, but infection rates remain higher among some groups, including women, young people, and Black African communities.
Richard Angell from the Terrence Higgins Trust said: “We need to make sure everyone understands the prevention options available and can access one that works for them.”
Juddy Otti from the Africa Advocacy Foundation added: “Providing choice is vital if we’re serious about ending new HIV transmissions.”
NHS rollout within months
If there are no appeals, the jab will be available on the NHS within two months in Wales and three months in England – a key moment in the UK’s fight to eliminate HIV by 2030.
