99% effective HIV drug exists, but USAID cuts block global access

Lenacapavir, an injectable form of HIV PrEP requiring just two shots a year, is 99% effective at preventing sexually transmitted HIV. The WHO recommended governments prioritise expanding access to it a year ago, but experts at the AIDS 2026 Conference in Rio de Janeiro warn that US foreign aid cuts under USAID will leave the countries most in need unable to afford or access the drug.