HIV infection is acquired through the sexual route, exposure to infected blood (needle injury, blood transfusion) or mother-to-child transmission. The risk of acquisition of HIV infection depends on the mode of transmission and the viral load of the source patient. For example, a patient who is not under HIV treatment and has a very high viral load, has a high risk of transmitting the infection to others. Similarly, unprotected anal intercourse has the greatest probability of sexual transmission.
Fortunately, the transmission of HIV can be prevented with the use of medications. These medications can be taken before exposure to HIV patients (Pre-exposure prophylaxis- PrEP) as well as after the exposure (Post-exposure Prophylaxis- PEP).
PrEP- For individuals who have an ongoing high risk for HIV, can be offered this to reduce the risk of transmission. Those are adherent to PrEP, the risk of HIV transmission decreases by 90%. Some examples of people who should receive PrEP are..
– Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women who have sex with men
– Heterosexually active persons who have partners with high risk of HIV infection
– Persons who have a sexual partner with HIV who has detectable viral load
– Injection drug users
PEP- This is prescribed to individuals who report a discrete high-risk exposure to HIV. It should be started as early as possible after the exposure and within 72 hours.
High risk exposures include condomless intercourse with HIV positive patient; percutaneous exposure or exposure to non-intact skin, to blood, or body fluids contaminated with blood.
The duration of PEP is 28 days, without any interruption. After completion of PEP, HIV status should be checked after 4-6 weeks and then at 3 months after the exposure.
PrEP and PEP should be taken after the advice of the HIV consultant. Though there can be minimal side effects like nausea and gastritis, PrEP and PEP medications are overall very safe. The regimens are selected in a way to have best efficacy with minimal or zero side effects. Both these are highly effective measures to control HIV in a population.
Are you looking for HIV Treatment in Ahmedabad? Call us at +91 96646 30466 for expert care at Tathaagat Infectious Disease Clinic in Ahmedabad.
