Gauteng restocks Lenacapavir after high demand; 28,593 initiation packs distributed

The Gauteng Department of Health has received 28,593 new Lenacapavir initiation packs, the province announced, sending supplies to health facilities after demand led to temporary shortages in some areas.

New delivery reaches 133 facilities

Gauteng health spokesperson Steve Mabona said the 28,593 initiation packs are being distributed to 133 healthcare facilities. The fresh stock will replenish facilities in Tshwane, Johannesburg and Sedibeng that had run low following the rollout of Lenacapavir in June 2026.

Stocks, uptake and future supplies

Mabona said the province had received 57,231 initiation packs in total across three batches by the end of July 2026. He added that Gauteng had already initiated 17,937 eligible clients on Lenacapavir.

The department said it has enough stock allocated to initiate 114,160 eligible clients between June 2026 and March 2027, and that further supplies are expected quarterly.

Official responses

Health and Wellness MEC Faith Mazibuko welcomed the public response to the six-monthly injection. She said:

“The overwhelming demand for Lenacapavir is a positive sign that more people are embracing HIV prevention services and taking charge of their health.”

Mabona described the shortages as a result of demand exceeding initial projections and said the department was “working around the clock to replenish stock.”

Clarifying purpose and follow-up

The department reiterated that Lenacapavir is not an HIV treatment. Mabona said some people living with HIV had mistakenly requested the injection, so healthcare workers continue to provide education on its purpose and eligibility criteria.

Mabona emphasised testing and complementary prevention measures: clients must first undergo HIV testing, and Lenacapavir does not protect against STIs or pregnancy, so condom use and regular screening are still encouraged. He said daily oral PrEP remains available and is a vital HIV prevention option, and that Lenacapavir is intended to complement, not replace, existing methods.

Importance of follow-up visits

The department urged clients to attend all scheduled appointments after initiation. Mabona said clients must return after one month, then every six months for further injections, for HIV retesting, clinical monitoring, and addressing any questions or concerns.