What is post-exposure prophylaxis?

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
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HIV post-exposure prevention (PEP) for children: Overview

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system. This is the body's natural defense system. Without a strong immune system, the body has trouble fighting off disease.

If your child has come into contact with HIV, treatment can help prevent the virus from taking hold and spreading in your child's body. This treatment is called post-exposure prevention (PEP). It is only for people who have been exposed to the virus but are not infected yet.

Children can be exposed to HIV in several ways. Some examples are:

  • Being sexually abused by a person who has HIV.
  • Nursing from the breast of someone who has HIV.

How is HIV post-exposure prevention (PEP) given?

PEP must be started within 3 days (72 hours) after you've been exposed to HIV. Your doctor will do an HIV test to be sure you're not already infected. You may get other tests. You'll take the PEP medicine for 28 days. You'll get another HIV test at the end of your treatment.

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