Post-exposure Prophylaxis
Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is a short-term anti-retroviral (ARV) treatment that reduces the likelihood of HIV infection after exposure to HIV-infected blood or sexual contact with an HIV-positive person. A combination of ARV medication is taken for 28 days.
The State (Settlers Hospital) will provide PEP free only if you have laid a charge of rape. Rhodes University will provide PEP for staff or students in the case of sexual assault, even if you do not wish to lay a charge. If you have been raped, report to the Health Care Centre, and they will call a doctor. A doctor will then prescribe PEP which the University will pay for. If you choose to lay a charge, you will have to report the rape to the police. If you do that a supporting officer will go with you to assist you to negotiate the process.
South African policy advises that a rape survivor should start PEP treatment as soon as possible, but no later than 72 hours after the rape or sexual assault.
The University does not provide PEP in cases where there has been contraceptive failure or unprotected sex.
For more information on PEP see http:///www.tac.org.za/community/node/2644
Last Modified: Fri, 02 Jun 2017 16:21:36 SAST