21/04/2026
INCREASING PREP OPTIONS IN FOR THE ZAMBIA WOMAN.
On Friday the 18th of April 2026 the Ministry of Health Zambia launched the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring (DVR) also known as the Virginal PReP ring.
WHO ARE DAPIVIRINE VAGINAL RINGS FOR?
PrEP rings are for females at risk of HIV. This includes adolescent girls, young women and women who are sexually active.
Here are some quick facts on the DVR
1. The ring starts protecting you 24 hours after insertion.
2. Its long acting – The ring once inserted will work for 28 days until it needs replacement.
3. Safe to use with most forms of contraception, except for contraceptive vaginal rings, diaphragms, or cervical caps.
4. Can be left in during menstruation and used with tampons, but not with menstrual cups.
5. Can be inserted or removed by the user following very easy steps
They Can be Accessed from the following places in Lusaka
1. Chawama Level 1 Hospital
2. The University Teaching Hospital
3. PPAZ Lusaka Clinic opposite Evelyn Hone College
