Decision to fund letermovir to prevent serious infection

Pharmac has decided to fund letermovir, a medicine that helps prevent serious viral infection in people with very weak immune systems.

From 1 May 2026, letermovir will 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.

This decision follows public consultation and strong feedback from clinicians involved in stem cell transplant care, patient groups, and Pharmac’s clinical advisors.

Feedback highlighted that preventing cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection with letermovir could make a meaningful difference for people at highest risk, particularly in the early stages of recovery after transplant.

Feedback also highlighted that some people would benefit from an injectable formulation of letermovir and we are looking into whether this can be made available in the future.

Funding letermovir is expected to support a small group of people each year by helping prevent serious illness, reducing the need for long hospital stays, and supporting recovery at home where possible.

Ngā mihi nui,

Pharmac | Te Pātaka Whaioranga | PO Box 10 254 | Level 9, 40 Mercer Street, Wellington

P: 0800 660 050 | www.pharmac.govt.nz