New PrEP Stock To Arrive Before Current Supply Expires, Says Health Minister

Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela on Tuesday issued a statement in regards to the availability of HIV prevention medication, reiterating a government commitment to introduce free preventive treatment in the coming weeks.

Addressing concerns about shortages of Pre Exposure Prophylaxis, known as PrEP, the Minister said a new consignment of the medication was expected to arrive in Malta well before the current stock expires at the end of the month.

In a Facebook post, the minister explained that PrEP is imported by VJ Salamone Ltd and that while existing supplies were nearing their expiry date, a fresh shipment had already been ordered last May.

He said the medication should arrive within the next two weeks, adding that the government’s role was to facilitate the necessary licensing processes.

Jo Etienne Abela also renewed a promise to introduce free HIV prevention treatment, describing it as a key step in strengthening public health protection.

He said the government would also widen eligibility for free post exposure treatment for people at risk. At present, such treatment is limited to healthcare professionals and victims of sexual abuse.

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