Accelerating bnAbs for peri- and post-natal HIV prophylaxis: An Action Plan
30 July 2024
The Action Plan “Accelerating bnAbs for Peri- and Post-Natal HIV Prophylaxis” was published in July 2024. Developed by a Task Force of leading experts and stakeholders, including the Medicines Patent Pool, this comprehensive plan outlines a strategic approach to address the urgent need for innovative HIV prevention strategies for infants.
In 2023 alone, approximately 120,000 infants acquired HIV, contributing to 9% of new global infections. This underscores the urgent need to intensify prevention efforts and reduce new infant infections. The document highlights the potential of broadly neutralising antibodies (bnAbs) as a promising strategy to address gaps in the prevention of peri- and post-natal HIV transmission. These antibodies have shown encouraging safety and efficacy profiles in early clinical trials, offering hope for long-term protection against HIV without the adherence challenges associated with daily oral prophylaxis.
The Action Plan details a multi-faceted strategy encompassing enabling science, clinical development, community partnership, regulatory pathways, manufacturing, access, policy, and advocacy. It aims to accelerate the development and broad implementation of bnAbs, ensuring they are accessible to the populations most in need.