Possible HIV Exposure: When to Seek PEP and What Happens Next
Seek urgent assessment immediately after a possible HIV exposure. PEP must start within 72 hours, ideally sooner; do not wait for a routine online booking.
If you may have been exposed to HIV, seek urgent in-person assessment now. WHO recommends starting post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP, as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours and no later than 72 hours. Do not delay for a routine online appointment.
Give the service a clear timeline
Tell the clinician when the exposure happened, what occurred and whether you already use PrEP or other medicines. Sexual exposure, needlestick injuries and assault may require different additional care. If you do not know a partner’s HIV status, say so; do not postpone assessment while trying to obtain their test. A healthcare professional evaluates the exposure and whether PEP is appropriate. Feeling well immediately afterwards does not show that there is no risk.
Testing supports care but should not create delay
The service may arrange a baseline HIV test, relevant blood tests and screening for other infections. A baseline negative test cannot exclude infection from a very recent event. Ask which results are needed immediately and when you should return. If the 72-hour window has passed, still seek advice about testing, symptoms and future prevention. Do not decide that care is pointless or use another person’s medication in an attempt to make up for lost time.
Understand the course and follow-up
WHO recommends a 28-day PEP course when indicated. Your clinician chooses the regimen and explains how to take it, possible interactions and what to do if side effects occur or a dose is missed. Arrange enough supply and a practical follow-up plan. Ask for written instructions and a confidential way to contact the service. Do not stop because you feel well or because an early test is negative. Follow-up testing is essential to complete the assessment.
Address the rest of your care
Ask about hepatitis, other STIs, pregnancy prevention and emotional support as appropriate. After assault, urgent compassionate care can address injuries and prevention without requiring you to settle every decision about reporting first. In South Africa, use an emergency department or a facility offering urgent HIV-exposure care and confirm that you can be assessed immediately. If ongoing exposure is possible, discuss transition to PrEP after PEP. Agree on safer-sex advice while follow-up is incomplete and keep the dates of your tests and treatment.
Key Takeaways
- Seek urgent assessment immediately; do not wait for routine booking.
- PEP must start within 72 hours and ideally much sooner.
- An early negative test does not exclude the recent exposure.
- Complete prescribed treatment and follow-up testing.
Sources & further reading
General health information; speak with a qualified healthcare professional for advice about your own care.