Cyprus launches ...
Cyprus launches free PrEP clinics at Nicosia and Larnaca hospitals — a public-health milestone that shifts prevention strategy
Cyprus’s Health Ministry this week began offering free Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) services at general hospitals in Nicosia and Larnaca, marking the public rollout of a prevention option that has been advocated for by clinicians and community groups for years. The clinics , available by appointment in afternoon PrEP clinics starting in early October , are intended to broaden access, reduce new HIV infections, and offer confidential, medically supervised prevention to people at risk. Community organisations involved in sexual-health advocacy welcomed the move and emphasised that accessible PrEP strengthens overall prevention and sexual-health literacy.
PrEP is a potent preventive tool: when taken as recommended it reduces the risk of HIV acquisition in people exposed to the virus to very low levels. For Cyprus, public provision removes substantial access barriers , out-of-pocket costs, confidentiality concerns at private clinics, and uneven physician familiarity. More broadly, normalising PrEP within public hospitals helps integrate prevention into mainstream healthcare rather than relegating it to marginalised clinics, which can reduce stigma and improve continuity of care (testing, STI screening, renal monitoring when needed). Community partnerships are crucial because they bring trust and targeted outreach into populations most likely to benefit.
what success will require beyond pills?
The announcement is necessary but not sufficient. To realise public-health gains, Cyprus must couple free PrEP with: clear clinical protocols (who is eligible, monitoring frequency), training for primary-care clinicians so they can proactively discuss PrEP, robust data collection to track uptake and effectiveness, and outreach strategies that reach people outside urban centres. Confidentiality safeguards also matter: people must be confident that seeking PrEP will not expose them to discrimination at work or in families. Finally, prevention is a package , condoms, timely testing, partner-notification services, and education must remain priorities alongside PrEP.
Potential risks and mitigation
• Risk of uneven uptake: targeted outreach is required for key populations and underserved areas. Community organisations are a strong asset here.
• Clinical oversight: PrEP requires baseline and periodic testing (HIV, renal function). Hospitals must be resourced to provide that follow-up without long waits.
• Perception and stigma: public messaging should emphasise PrEP’s role in a combined prevention strategy to avoid moralising narratives that could undermine uptake.
The free PrEP rollout is a concrete public-health advance for Cyprus that can prevent infections and reduce stigma , provided it is implemented with strong clinical pathways, proactive outreach and continued partnership with community groups
Market Cyprus - News Service
Our digital marketing platform publishes daily captivating news about Cyprus, covering diverse topics from cultural events and historical insights to modern developments and travel tips. Stay informed and engaged with our up-to-date, interesting content showcasing the beauty and vibrancy of Cyprus.