PrEP and nPEP

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) are HIV prevention strategies.  They are medical interventions and public health approaches used to prevent infection.  Please read below to learn more about PrEP and nPEP.

Financial Resources

DDP has begun billing for PrEP services.  Financial help is available  through:

Patients with no insurance who are not eligible for Medicaid will continue to receive PrEP at no cost (if income requirements are met).

PrEP navigators are available at most VDH partner sites.  Navigators can assist with any questions during this transition period.  They are also available to assist with enrollment into programs for financial help for PrEP services.  Find a PrEP clinic near using the locator below and ask if they have a navigator to assist you with your needs.

PrEP

“PrEP” stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis.  The word “prophylaxis” means to prevent or control, as in the spread of an infection or disease.  An example is using a condom to prevent pregnancy or STDs.  The goal of PrEP is to prevent HIV infection from taking hold if you are exposed to the virus.  This is done by taking one pill at the same time every day.  These are some of the same medicines used to keep the virus under control in people who are already living with HIV.  PrEP is most effective when used with other prevention strategies such as condoms.

nPEP

“nPEP” stands for non-occupational Post Exposure Prophylaxis.  As the term suggests, the goal of nPEP is to prevent HIV infection after you have been exposed to the virus.  Having condom-less sex or sharing a needle with a person known to have HIV, or unknown HIV status, or in the case of sexual assault are typical uses for nPEP.  It is important to know that the medications used for nPEP must be started within 72 hours after the incident occurred to be effective.

PrEP Services Locator

Let's Talk About PrEP

Listen to real people tell their stories about PrEP.

General Resources for PrEP

 

For more information on PrEP services in Virginia, please contact Eric Mayes, PrEP Coordinator, at eric.mayes@vdh.virginia.gov or (804) 864-7335.

Last Updated: August 2, 2021