The Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela has announced a new investment in the healthcare of our population, aimed at preventing HIV infection in our country, with the introduction of free PEP and PrEP. Through this initiative, another election promise is being fulfilled.
Malta is aligned with the UNAIDS accelerated targets to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Substantial investments have already been made to ensure that people living with HIV have access to quality specialist-led care services and up-to-date medicines, enabling them to achieve viral suppression and enjoy a good quality of life and normal life expectancy. This is part of the concept of “Treatment as Prevention”, which also reduces the transmission of infection in the population in the interest of public health.
Minister Jo Etienne Abela said that from today two medicines are being launched for free availability. PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) for anyone who may have been exposed to HIV, regardless of the type of exposure. He said that until now PEP was available free of charge in limited circumstances, such as exposure in the workplace or in cases of rape. Now eligibility for free PEP has been expanded to include all types of exposure, including consensual sexual exposures, other occupational exposures or any other exposure.
The second drug being announced today is PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), which is indicated for people or key groups who may be at risk or potential risk of exposure to HIV, according to international guidelines. In order to access free PrEP, one must make an appointment at a GU clinic in Malta or Gozo for an assessment by a specialist.
Minister Abela explained how this investment in HIV prevention reflects the Government’s commitment to strengthening public health and reducing inequalities in access to health services. “By making PEP and PrEP available free of charge, we are placing prevention at the centre of our health policy and ensuring that no one is left behind. This is a measure based on evidence, human rights and solidarity, which will contribute to a healthier population and for Malta to continue to advance towards the goal of ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030,” concluded Dr Abela.
The public is encouraged to contact healthcare professionals at the GU clinic during clinic hours or attend one of the Primary Health Centres if the exposure was sexual. In cases of rape, one should go directly to the Emergency Department, while workplace exposures should be referred to the Infection Control Unit of the relevant health service.
More information on access to PEP and PrEP, as well as on sexual health, is available at www.sexualhealth.gov.mt .
