The PN said that it is deeply concerned by reports that HIV prevention drug PrEP is now unavailable in Malta, not even against payment.
“The Government has not only failed to deliver on its promise of free PrEP, but has now allowed stocks to expire without replacement. This means that people cannot get this key HIV prevention pill for free and now they cannot even pay for it because there is no stock, with the remaining option being to get it online.”
“At a time when Malta has one of the highest HIV transmission rates in Europe, this is a serious public health failure. HIV prevention cannot wait for Labour’s endless delays and broken promises.”
The PN said that it has been speaking out on this issue for years.
“Just last month, PN Leader Alex Borg met with activists and reiterated the PN’s commitment to introduce free PrEP within the first year of a Nationalist Government, delivering where Labour has failed.” The PN stressed that lack of adequate medication will lead to adverse effects on those involved, whilst also leading to a greater burden on the national health services.
“We stand in solidarity with all those affected and thank the organisations working tirelessly in HIV prevention and sexual health.”