Post-exposure prophylaxis
[3][4][5] Top-line results from this trial suggested that use of ensitrelvir as post-exposure prophylaxis may significantly reduce the risk of symptomatic COVID-19 infection in exposed household contacts compared to placebo.
[citation needed] The guidelines for such events in the United States for non-pregnant people 11 years and older are as follows:[14] AZT was approved as a treatment for AIDS in 1987.
Early data from preclinical studies established the efficacy of AZT in preventing transmission of HIV infection.
[17] Subsequent data show combination antiretroviral therapy is significantly superior than AZT in reducing perinatal transmission rates.
[18] In addition, AZT is generally no longer recommended due to poor tolerance resulting in high rates of patient noncompliance.
[19] In 2005, the US DHHS released the first recommendations for non-occupational PEP (nPEP) use to lower risk of HIV infection after exposures.
In 2012, the US DHHS included guidelines on occupational PEP (oPEP) use for individuals with HIV exposures occurring in health care settings.
[24] Initiation of post-exposure prophylaxis with the use of antiretroviral drugs is dependent on a number of risk factors, though treatment is usually started after one high-risk event.
In order to determine whether post-exposure prophylaxis is indicated, an evaluation visit will be conducted to consider risk factors associated with developing HIV.
[20] Risk factors for developing HIV includes exposure of mucous membranes (vagina, rectum, eye, mouth, broken skin or under the skin) of an HIV-negative person to bodily fluids (blood, semen, rectal secretions, vaginal secretions, breast milk) of a person known to be HIV positive.
[20] People may experience signs and symptoms of acute HIV infection, including fever, fatigue, myalgia, and skin rash, while taking PEP.
CDC recommends seeking medical attention for evaluation if these signs and symptoms occur during or after the month of PEP.
In addition, since the time and level of non-occupational exposures are self-reported, there is no absolute data on the administration timeframe to which PEP would be efficacious.
[20] They should also be counseled on unpleasant side effects including malaise, fatigue, diarrhea, headache, nausea, vomiting, and insomnia, depending on the medication administered.
[25][29] People at high risk for re-exposure due to unprotected intercourse or other behavioral factors should begin PrEP immediately after the completion of the nPEP treatment course.
[citation needed][32] Persons exposed to hepatitis C should be tested monthly with PCR, and if seroconversion occurs then treatment with interferon, or possibly ribavirin.
