PrEP (HIV Prevention)

The most effective ways to prevent HIV include: taking PrEP (such as emtricitabine/tenofovir tablets), using condoms correctly, regular HIV testing, avoiding sharing needles or injecting equipment, and ensuring sexual partners know their HIV status. When used together, these strategies provide the strongest protection. Education and open communication are also key parts of prevention.

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) works by preventing HIV from multiplying and establishing an infection in the body if someone is exposed to the virus. It is taken as a daily tablet containing emtricitabine and tenofovir. When taken consistently, it is highly effective in reducing the risk of HIV transmission.

The first stage of HIV is called acute HIV infection. This typically occurs 2–4 weeks after exposure and may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, or swollen glands. Some people, however, may not experience any symptoms at all in this stage.

People at higher risk include those who have unprotected sex with multiple partners, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs and share equipment, and those with an HIV-positive partner. Risk can also increase if someone has another sexually transmitted infection. PrEP is especially recommended for individuals in these higher-risk groups.

HIV itself does not directly cause pain at the start. However, during early infection, some people may feel body aches, joint pain, or sore throat as part of flu-like symptoms. Later in the illness, untreated HIV can cause nerve pain, muscle discomfort, or headaches.

Yes, it is possible to live with HIV for many years without obvious symptoms, especially if untreated. During this time, the virus continues to damage the immune system, even if the person feels well. This is why regular testing is so important for anyone at risk.

Early signs can appear 2–4 weeks after exposure, but not everyone experiences them. After the initial stage, HIV may remain symptom-free for years. Symptoms often only appear once the immune system has weakened significantly.

Weight loss related to HIV usually occurs in later stages, when the immune system is compromised. This is often referred to as “HIV wasting syndrome”. With effective treatment, such as antiretroviral therapy, weight loss can often be prevented.

Currently, HIV is not curable, but it is treatable with highly effective medicines. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) allows people with HIV to live long, healthy lives and prevents them from passing on the virus. Prevention strategies like PrEP greatly reduce the risk of ever acquiring HIV in the first place.

There are home testing kits available that can give quick results. Some kits provide results instantly, while others require sending a sample to a lab. Regular testing is vital for anyone at risk of HIV, as early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment and better health outcomes.

If HIV is not treated, it gradually weakens the immune system over time. This makes the body more vulnerable to serious infections and illnesses. Untreated HIV can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which can be life-threatening.