MPSP Investigates Janaina Paschoal: Condoms & HIV Case
- São Paulo councilwoman Janaina Paschoal is facing an inquiry over a social media post that critics say questions the effectiveness of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis...
- Councilwoman Janaina Paschoal posted on social media, stating, "When remedies became data like water, there was an explosion of syphilis.
- the Paulistano movement argues that Paschoal's post implicitly criticizes the municipal public policy of distributing PrEP and PEP,preventative medications for HIV.
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São Paulo councilwoman Janaina Paschoal is facing an inquiry over a social media post that critics say questions the effectiveness of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). The examination was prompted by a complaint from the Paulistano movement to fight AIDS.
Published: October 4, 2024, 02:09:48 AM PDT
The Controversy: A Post and a Complaint
Councilwoman Janaina Paschoal posted on social media, stating, “When remedies became data like water, there was an explosion of syphilis. We need to talk about it!” this post, made at an unspecified date prior to October 4, 2024, sparked the complaint to the Public Prosecutor’s office of the State of São Paulo (MPSP).
the Paulistano movement argues that Paschoal’s post implicitly criticizes the municipal public policy of distributing PrEP and PEP,preventative medications for HIV. PrEP involves taking medication *before* potential exposure to HIV to prevent infection, while PEP is taken *after* a possible exposure.
Prosecutor’s Concerns and Demand for Evidence
According to prosecutor Arthur Pinto Filho, the MPSP is investigating weather Paschoal’s statement requires a correction.Alternatively, the prosecutor stated the need to demonstrate the constitutionality and scientific validity of the PrEP and PEP programs.
Pinto Filho specifically requested evidence demonstrating that the public policy is “elaborated within the best evidence of medicine, based on official epidemiological data that demonstrates the effectiveness of PREP and PEP in reducing new cases of HIV, especially among young peopel.” This suggests a focus on whether the programs are demonstrably effective and supported by current medical understanding.
Councilwoman’s Response and Defense
When contacted by Metropolis, paschoal expressed surprise at the inquiry, stating, “I am very sad to know this, because if a councilman cannot criticize a policy of the executive branch, I do not know who can.”
“And at no time did I criticize people living with HIV/AIDS. I’ve lost relatives to this disease. What I criticized was the trivialization of sex without a condom. I really understand being a mistake,” said Janaina Paschoal.
Paschoal maintains that her criticism was directed at the perceived normalization of unprotected sex, not at individuals living with HIV/AIDS or the programs designed to prevent infection. She also argued that the MPSP’s interpretation of her post “makes no sense,” asserting that democracies should allow for open criticism of government policies.
Understanding PrEP and PEP: A Closer Look
PrEP and PEP are cornerstones of modern HIV prevention strategies. Their implementation has been shown to substantially reduce HIV transmission rates in various populations.However, access and adherence to these programs remain challenges.
| Prophylaxis | Timing | Mechanism | Effectiveness (Typical Use) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) | Before potential exposure | daily medication prevents HIV from establishing infection. | Around 99% when taken consistently; ~74% with typical use. CDC – PrEP |
| PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) | After potential exposure (within 72 hours) | 30-day medication course to prevent HIV from establishing infection. | Around 80% effective when started within 72 hours of exposure. CDC – PEP |
The concern