2023-09-29 15:55:16
The use of a new product in the fight against HIV infections begins in South Africa. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria speaks of a new era, as it reported on Friday in Geneva. Three local organizations in South Africa want to soon distribute vaginal rings that women can use to protect themselves to a certain extent against infection. 16,000 were ordered with financial support from the Global Fund.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended its use in 2021. In studies, HIV infections among women who used the ring fell by up to 35 percent. Two extension studies indicated significantly greater effectiveness. Global Fund Executive Director Peter Sands expects “revolutionary impact” on HIV prevention. He said he hoped that many countries would follow South Africa’s example. Other countries in southern Africa have already approved the ring.
Silicone ring with antiretroviral agent
The ring is made of silicone and is inserted into the vagina, the Global Fund reported. There it releases the antiretroviral drug dapivirine over 28 days. It needs to be changed after a month. It is a discreet way to protect yourself. The other option is to take a medication every day to prevent infection.
However, many women find this difficult for various reasons. Condoms can also prevent infections, but men usually decide whether to use them. “We need to give women more control over their health and their bodies,” said the head of the AIDS Foundation of South Africa, Ntombenhle Mkhize.
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No country is as badly affected by HIV as South Africa. Almost eight million people live with the virus there. The country had the highest number of new HIV infections globally in 2022, more than 160,000. (dpa)
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