Despite the behavior a person participates in, it is possible to prevent HIV. Some tools include:

• Limiting your number of sexual partners
• Avoid sharing needles with others
• Using condoms during0 sex : vaginal, anal, and oral
• Talk to your partner about HIV/STDs before having sex
• Getting on PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) & PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a biomedical prevention method used to prevent HIV. This method is shown to reduce the risk of contracting HIV by up to 99%, if used properly. PrEP comes in two forms: the pill and the injection

• The Pill: There are two approved PrEP pill medications sold under the brand names Truvada® and Descovy®. When taken daily, this form of prep is highly effective for preventing HIV from condom less sex or injection drug use. PrEP is much less effective when it is not taken consistently. Studies have shown that PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV from sex by about 99% when taken daily. Among people who inject drugs, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV by at least 74% when taken daily.
• The Injection: The approved injection for PrEP is sold under the brand name Apretude®. Unlinke the pill, the injection requires two initial doses from the first month to the second month and then every other month thereafter. With the injection there is no need for daily doses and can be a great option for people who struggle to take the pill daily. Similarly, studies have shown that Apretude® for PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV by about 99% when doses are provided appropriately. It is important to note that each dose should be given anywhere from 7 days before to 7 days after the target appointment date.

PEP (Post-exposure prophylaxis) is a biomedical prevention method used to prevent HIV after an exposure has occurred. It is important to note that the medication must be started within 72 hours after the exposure. It is a 28 Day regimen and must be taken daily for the entire 28 Days in the attempt to keep the person HIV-negative.

PrEP Navigation Services

Patients on or interested in PrEP will be referred to a PrEP Navigator who will provide the following Services:

• PrEP/PEP education and screening
• HIV Rapid Testing/Counseling
• Insurance navigation and assistance (include signing up for co-pay programs and payment assistance programs as needed).
• Care management to assist patients with the scheduling of initial PrEP appointments and follow-up appointments, lab orders, and confirmation of prescription orders from providers.
• PEP Navigation
• Linkage to other support services
• Support for patients to stay HIV and STI negative

To speak to the Prep Navigator call (559) 686-9097 Ext. 4218. Or Text “PrEP” to make an appointment (559) 686-9097

For more information visit the Center for Disease Control’s website:  https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/prep.html