Health Department dismisses viral claim of R1 200 HIV grant
The Health Department warns that a viral post claiming a R1 200 HIV grant for HIV-positive citizens from May 2026 is false.
The National Department of Health has warned the public about a misleading social media post falsely claiming that HIV-positive South Africans will receive a monthly grant of R1 200 from May 2026.
The department said the claim is false and urged people not to share the post.
Viral post spreads false HIV grant claim
The widely shared post carries the headline: “HIV positive citizens will receive R1 200 grant from May 2026.”
It claims the payment forms part of a “new government initiative” allegedly announced by Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi.
However, the Department of Health said the government has made no such announcement.
The department urged social media users to verify information before sharing it online.
“The public must fact-check information on social media before sharing it, providing personal information, or making any payments in response to such fake news,” the department said.
Warning over misinformation and scams
The department said the warning comes amid growing concern about online scams and misinformation.
Officials said false claims often target vulnerable communities or exploit sensitive health issues.
While the viral post about the supposed HIV grant is false, the government recently highlighted efforts to strengthen South Africa’s HIV and AIDS response through increased funding and support for health programmes.
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