Protocol 13. Post Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV Infection

Following exposure to HIV, there are currently only two known means to reduce the risk of developing HIV infection: post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and interventions to prevent mother-to-child transmission.

PEP is a medical response given to prevent the transmission of pathogens after potential exposure. PEP for HIV refers to a set of comprehensive services to prevent HIV infection in exposed individuals. These services include, first aid care, counselling and risk assessment, HIV testing based on informed consent, and depending on risk assessment, the provision of short term (28 days) antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, with follow up and support.