HIV is a viral disease that weakens the human immune system. When HIV destroys this cell known as CD4 helper cell or T cell, it becomes hard for the CD4 cells of the body to fight other infections leading to AIDS.

Ever since HIV has been declared a pandemic disease, the virus can only be manage through the use of Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) i.e using medicines to treat People living with HIV (PLHIV) by taking a combination of HIV medicines daily. ARTs can’t cure HIV but help people with HIV live longer and healthy lives while reducing the risk of transmitting HIV.

After several researches by scientist, an emergency HIV prevention tool, known as Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), was recommended for an HIV negative person who has recently been exposed to HIV. PEP reduces the likelihood of HIV infection if taken properly within 72hours of exposure. PEP is unlikely to work if it’s started after 3 days (72 hours). It is best to start taking PEP within 1 day (24 hours) of being exposed to HIV, once or twice daily for 28 days. Taking PEP is effective in preventing HIV when administered correctly.

Kayode Teslim Owoso

Link: http://nhvmas-ng.org/site/hiv-is-preventable-within-72-hours-of-exposure-owoso-kayode-teslim/