RAHWAY, N.J. — September 18, 2026

Merck announced the launch of Your Hive of Whole Health, a multi-year educational program designed to support people living with HIV by addressing physical, mental, emotional and social well-being. Introduced at the 2026 U.S. Conference on HIV/AIDS (USCHA) in Anaheim, California, the initiative encourages people to create personalized networks of support, or “Hives,” that can include healthcare providers, community advocates, family members and peers. The program is designed to broaden conversations around HIV management beyond viral suppression and treatment to encompass whole-person health.

Initiative Promotes Personalized HIV Support Networks

Your Hive of Whole Health provides tools and resources intended to help people living with HIV identify, build and maintain personalized circles of care and support. Merck said these networks can be particularly relevant for individuals navigating HIV while aging, managing co-occurring health conditions or addressing social and emotional challenges. The initiative was developed with an advisory council of community organizations and advocates and uses the concept of a hive to emphasize collaboration and collective support. The program encourages individuals to understand the distinct roles that healthcare professionals, community organizations and personal support networks can play in overall well-being.

Debbie Allen and Advocates Highlight Whole-Person Health

Actress, director, producer and longtime HIV advocate Debbie Allen joined Merck to launch the initiative and participate in a USCHA plenary session on September 19. The session brought together advocates and community voices reflecting on four decades of HIV advocacy and aligned with the conference theme, “United and Unbreakable, the HIV Movement at 45.” The program included discussions focused on community resilience, health and well-being, along with opportunities for attendees to connect and learn about their role within broader HIV support networks. Merck said the initiative was shaped by collaboration with community organizations and advocates.

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Merck Expands Focus on Comprehensive HIV Management

Your Hive of Whole Health extends Merck’s long-standing HIV activities into a broader educational and community-support framework, complementing the company’s ongoing research into HIV treatment and prevention. Merck said the program will address factors including mental wellness, co-occurring conditions, social drivers of health and other life challenges, alongside established HIV management goals. The company has worked in HIV research and drug development for more than 40 years and continues to develop antiviral options for treatment and prevention. Through the new initiative, Merck is seeking to support a more comprehensive approach to health and well-being for people living with HIV.

Source:Merck, press release