WHAT IS HIV PREP?

PrEP = Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. 

HIV PrEP is an FDA-approved, daily antiretroviral (ART) medication taken by individuals who are HIV-negative to reduce their risk of contracting HIV. It is composed of two HIV medicines, tenofovir and emtricitabine, and is sold under the name, Truvada. When taken daily and consistently, PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV through sexual contact by more than 90%, and by 70% for injection-drug users. 

WHO WOULD BENEFIT FROM TAKING PREP?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published a set of guidelines to establish eligibility criteria for HIV PrEP. You may be eligible for PrEP if you are currently HIV-negative and are at high risk for contracting HIV due to existing behavioral, cultural, or social practices. 

High-risk individuals are defined as those who have a higher chance of becoming infected with HIV through sex or injection drug use. These individuals may include those who are in ongoing relationships with HIV-positive individuals or those currently engaging in risky health behaviors. 

YOU MAY BE A CANDIDATE FOR PREP IF YOU:

1. Are in an on-going relationship with an HIV-positive partner
2. Have multiple sex partners and do not consistently use condoms
3. Have injected drugs, shared needles, or received treatment within the past 6 months
4. Are a man who has sex with men and do not use condoms regularly or has had an STI within the past six months
5. Are considering getting pregnant with an HIV-positive partner

OPH PREP LINKAGE

The Montgomery County Office of Public Health (OPH) acts as a PrEP linkage coordinator so that residents of Montgomery County can be easily linked to the resources and services that would best promote their health and safety.

If you determine that HIV PrEP may be right for you, give the Montgomery County Office of Public Health a call. A public health professional can assist you with the linkage and enrollment process so that you can seek care from a provider that best suits your health needs.