New HIV Drug Available Through Howard County Health Department

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — The Howard County Health Department has become one of the first health departments in Maryland to offer Yeztugo, a groundbreaking twice-yearly injectable medication proven to provide highly effective protection against HIV, officials stated Wednesday.

“This is a powerful step toward ending new HIV infections in our community,” said Howard County Health Officer Dr. Maura J. Rossman. “Yeztugo can be life-changing, especially for individuals who face the greatest structural and social barriers to care. Being able to offer this medication is both a treatment milestone and an equity milestone.”

By requiring two injections per year, Yeztugo is a more user-friendly option than the daily oral prevention, experts say. The Howard County Health Department will administer the injection and help with case management and care coordination. The health department can help navigate insurance, offer behavioral health referrals and ongoing follow-up to support overall wellbeing, too.

“Offering Yeztugo is just one part of how we deliver care,” said Patricia Odetola, MSN, RN, infection prevention and control program supervisor. “Our team provides each client with support so they can confidently take charge of their own health decisions.”

Residents can learn more about Yeztugo or schedule an appointment at the Howard County Health Department website or call the Howard County Health Department clinic at 410-313-7500.