Question
Define and explain briefly post exposure prophylaxis??
Answers
GPT-4o mini
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) refers to a medical treatment that is administered after potential exposure to a pathogen, most commonly to prevent infection. It is often associated with exposure to HIV, but it can also apply to other infectious diseases such as hepatitis B and rabies.
In the context of HIV, PEP involves taking antiretroviral medications within 72 hours after possible exposure to the virus through sexual contact, sharing needles, or other high-risk situations. The treatment typically lasts for 28 days and is effective in reducing the risk of HIV infection if started promptly.
PEP is not a substitute for regular preventive measures like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) or safe practices, but rather a critical emergency response to minimize the risk of infection after exposure has occurred. It requires medical supervision and is most effective when the exposure is confirmed and the medication is started as soon as possible.
In the context of HIV, PEP involves taking antiretroviral medications within 72 hours after possible exposure to the virus through sexual contact, sharing needles, or other high-risk situations. The treatment typically lasts for 28 days and is effective in reducing the risk of HIV infection if started promptly.
PEP is not a substitute for regular preventive measures like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) or safe practices, but rather a critical emergency response to minimize the risk of infection after exposure has occurred. It requires medical supervision and is most effective when the exposure is confirmed and the medication is started as soon as possible.