Malta Implements Free HIV Prevention Medication Program Amid Rising Cases

Historic Move for Public Health

As of January 29, 2026, the Maltese government has officially made HIV prevention medications, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), available free of charge. This significant public health initiative aims to curb the rising rates of HIV diagnoses in the country, which has reported one of the highest per capita rates in Europe for the second consecutive year.

The announcement fulfills a key pledge from the Labour Party's 2022 electoral manifesto. Prime Minister Robert Abela initially announced the implementation date on January 18, 2026, during an interview, emphasizing the measure's potential to make a substantial difference in the lives of those affected by HIV. Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela, reiterated the launch on the day of implementation, highlighting it as a new investment in healthcare.

Understanding PrEP and PEP

The newly available medications are crucial tools in HIV prevention:

• Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): This medication is for individuals who are HIV-negative but are at an increased risk of exposure to HIV. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective in preventing HIV infection. Oral PrEP typically involves a one-pill daily regimen containing a combination of two anti-HIV medications, Emtricitabine and Tenofovir.
• Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): PEP is an emergency treatment consisting of a combination of three anti-HIV medications. It must be started as soon as possible after potential exposure to HIV, ideally within 24 hours but no later than 72 hours, and is taken for 28 days. Previously, free PEP was only available under limited circumstances, such as occupational exposure or cases of rape, but its eligibility has now been extended to cover all types of exposure.

Before this initiative, a 30-day supply of PrEP cost approximately €57, while a course of PEP could range from €450 to €600, making them largely inaccessible to many.

Access and National Goals

To access free PrEP, individuals must schedule an appointment at the Genitourinary (GU) clinic in Malta or Gozo for a specialist assessment. For PEP, individuals can obtain it from the GU clinic during working hours or the Emergency Department (A&E) during out-of-office hours.

This move aligns Malta with the accelerated targets set by UNAIDS, which aim to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Minister Abela stated that by making PrEP and PEP freely available, Malta is placing prevention at the core of its health policy, ensuring equitable access to healthcare, and working towards a healthier population.