HIV post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a course of HIV medication that aims to prevent HIV infection. Infection can follow recent exposure to HIV, for example, following a sexual contact or a needle-stick injury. A full course of PEP is for 28 days (4 weeks).
PEP must start as soon as possible and within 72 hours (3 days) of the possible exposure to HIV.
PEP is only available following an assessment by a doctor or a nurse. Not everyone who presents for PEP will need it.
PEP is available through Public Sexual Health services, STI services and Infectious Diseases services.
PEP medication is free in Ireland.
Out of hours
PEP is available through Emergency Departments. PEP is not available in Injury Units.
Emergency action required: Go to your nearest emergency department (ED) if:
- there is an injury requiring urgent medical attention
- it is not possible to get PEP from a Public Sexual Health or Infection Disease service within 72 hours
There is a charge if you attend an Emergency Department without a referral letter. This charge is mandated by the Health (Out-Patient Charges) Regulations 2013 (irishstatutebook.ie). For EU residents this cost is currently €100. The cost of attendance at an Emergency Department for non-EU residents is more. Medical card holders and some other groups are exempt from this charge. Attendance for PEP assessment is not exempt from this charge.
Sexual Assault Treatment Units (SATUs)
PEP is available at Sexual Assault Treatment Units (SATUs) if you have experienced sexual assault. PEP is only available if you are attending for assessment following a sexual assault.
Where to find a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit
PEP for staff
If you have had potential exposure to HIV in work, contact your Occupational Health department.
If your workplace does not have an Occupational Health department you can access PEP in some other services and Injury Units.