Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Merck launches HIV initiative for whole person care

Merck & Co., known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, has introduced Your Hive of Whole Health, a multi-year education program in the U.S. for people living with HIV. The initiative is designed to help individuals create personal support networks that address health and daily life more broadly.

The company unveiled the program at the U.S. Conference on HIV/AIDS in Anaheim, California, which took place from September 17 to 20, 2026. Debbie Allen, the actress, director, producer and long-time HIV advocate, is supporting the launch.

Support beyond viral suppression

The initiative focuses on physical, mental, emotional and social well-being. According to Merck, the program encourages people living with HIV to identify and strengthen their own circle of support. This may include healthcare professionals, community advocates, family members, peers and other trusted contacts.

Merck said the approach is relevant for people aging with HIV, including those managing co-occurring health conditions or other challenges. The company positions the program as a resource for both community leaders and people living with HIV to better understand the roles within a care and support network.

Debbie Allen joins launch at USCHA

Allen was scheduled to take part in a USCHA plenary session on September 19. The session was aligned with the conference theme United and Unbreakable, the HIV Movement at 45 and was set to feature HIV community voices as well as cultural performances.

NMAC, a U.S.-based HIV organization, framed the campaign within the wider discussion on whole person health. Its CEO, Harold Phillips, said in Merck’s announcement that progress against HIV requires attention to medical, mental, behavioral, emotional and social factors.

Part of Merck’s HIV activities

Merck said the program was developed with an advisory council made up of community organizations and advocates. Conrod Kelly, HIV Business Unit Lead, U.S. at Merck, described the initiative as an effort to broaden conversations about HIV management to include mental wellness, co-occurring conditions, social drivers and other life challenges.

The company links the program to its broader HIV work, which it says spans more than 40 years. Merck also stated that it is developing antiviral options for HIV treatment and prevention.