Source: PHARMAC
People who have just had a stem cell transplant could be better protected from a serious viral infection under a new proposal from Pharmac to fund a preventive medicine.
Pharmac is consulting on a proposal to fund letermovir, an antiviral medicine that helps prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. If approved, funding would begin on 1 May 2026.
CMV is a very common virus and is usually harmless. Most people are exposed in childhood where it stays in their body for life without any problems. However, it can cause serious illness in people whose immune systems are not working properly, particularly those who have had a stem cell transplant.
“For people recovering from a stem cell transplant, infections like CMV can mean long hospital stays and intensive treatment,” says Pharmac’s Manager of Pharmaceutical Funding, Claire Pouwels. “Preventing infection in the first place can help people avoid these outcomes.”
Under the proposal, letermovir would be funded for people who have had a stem cell transplant, as well as a small number of other people with severe immunosuppression who cannot use other funded antiviral medicines. The medicine would be available in hospitals and through community pharmacies.
“We’ve heard from clinicians and our clinical advisors that preventing CMV can make a real difference,” says Pouwels. “Letermovir works by helping prevent CMV from becoming active, rather than waiting until someone becomes unwell and needs more intensive treatment.”
Stem cell transplants are only carried out in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, meaning many people must travel and stay away from home for long periods while their immune systems recover. If CMV infection develops, that time in hospital can be extended.
“Preventing CMV infection could reduce the need for lengthy hospital stays, helping people get home sooner and spend more time with their whānau,” says Pouwels.
Pharmac is seeking feedback on the proposal from people who may be affected, including patients, families and carers, health professionals, advocacy groups, and anyone else who is interested.
Consultation is open until 5pm, Thursday 19 March. Feedback can be emailed to consult@pharmac.govt.nz. All feedback received by the closing date will be considered before a final decision is made.
