The European Union has just taken a massive leap forward in HIV prevention. Regulators have officially recommended the approval of lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable medication, branded as Yeytuo in Europe. It’s already been approved in the U.S. under the name Yeztugo and has been hailed as a game-changer due to nearly 100% effectiveness in preventing HIV, according to large clinical trials.

This pioneering approach means people at risk of HIV can now access protection with just two shots per year instead of daily pills—addressing common barriers like forgetfulness, stigma, and difficulty accessing healthcare services.

The World Health Organization has also endorsed lenacapavir as a vital addition to HIV prevention tools. Gilead Sciences, the manufacturer, is partnering with the Global Fund to make the drug available to populations in 120 lower-income countries, aiming for equitable access worldwide.