Norway announces it will provide PrEP for Free to People Most at Risk

Norway is the second European country—after France—to offer PrEP , but the first to do so for free. The national health policy was shepherded by HIV Norway and the Institute of Public Health and the Health Directorate.

According toNewNowNext: Norway’s Minister for Health and Social Care Bent Høie made the announcement earlier this week, stating that the drug would not only be available in the country, but that it would also be provided to at-risk users at no expense.

“PrEP will contribute to reducing the rate of new infections in the gay community, as gay men are facing a risk of infection much higher than the general population,” stated Leif-Ove Hansen, the president of HIV Norway.

“Condom use is on the decline,” he continued, “and we are happy that PrEP now is an integrated part of the public health service.”

The news was met with enthusiasm by HIV Prevention experts worldwide as it may pave the way for more countries to follow suit.