South Africa & Gilead Sciences

South Africa: South Africa is the first country to introduce Lenacapavir for HIV prevention, aiming to curb its high HIV burden. The country played a central role in the drug's clinical trials and is working to secure manufacturing licenses for generic versions.

Gilead Sciences: Gilead Sciences developed Lenacapavir and has committed to granting a voluntary manufacturing license to a South African company, which will allow for cheaper generic versions of the drug.

South Africa: South Africa has pledged $2.5 million to support the Ebola response, contributing to international efforts to contain the outbreak.

Gilead Sciences: Gilead Sciences is a key partner in the urgent high-level coordination meeting convened by United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, potentially involved in assessing medical countermeasures for the Ebola outbreak.

South Africa: Selected for generic production of lenacapavir, potentially boosting local pharmaceutical industry and access to HIV drugs.

Gilead Sciences: Developed lenacapavir, a highly effective HIV prevention injectable; faces potential revenue impact from generic production in South Africa.

South Africa: Deputy Health Minister Phaahla called for stronger domestic HIV financing in Africa.

Gilead Sciences: Facing pressure to expand access to lenacapavir; its pricing and licensing decisions are under scrutiny.

South Africa: South Africa, through its epidemiologists, is observing the Ebola outbreak and providing expert commentary on its rapid spread and challenges.

Gilead Sciences: Gilead Sciences' experimental oral COVID antiviral drug, Obeldesivir, is being considered for use as a preventative treatment for Ebola contacts, under strict protocol.

South Africa: President Ramaphosa visited DRC; urged no travel bans.

Gilead Sciences: Supplying remdesivir for clinical trials; potential positive impact if treatment proves effective.

South Africa: South Africa's President, Cyril Ramaphosa, is the African Union Champion for Pandemic Preparedness, Prevention and Response and was consulted on the PHECS declaration.

Gilead Sciences: Gilead Sciences' antiviral drug remdesivir and experimental drug obeldesivir are being prioritized for clinical trials to treat or prevent the Bundibugyo ebolavirus, indicating its significant role in potential therapies.