Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV: A 10-year review of data from a tertiary health facility in northcentral Nigeria

*[1]Audu, E. S., [2]Bello, S. O., [3]Ablaku, A., [4]Audu, A. A., 5Bako, I. A., 5Mathew, M., and 6Anazodo, M. C.

1Department of Medical Microbiology, Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

2Department of Paediatrics, Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

3Pharmacy Unit, Special Treatment Clinic, Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

4Department of Human Anatomy, Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

5Department of Community Medicine, Federal University, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

6Department of Community Medicine, Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria *Correspondence to: estanamo@gmail.com; +2347083599740 ORCID: 0000-0002-3129-7754

Abstract:  

Background: Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the use of short-term antiretroviral therapy (ART) following a single risk exposure to a potential source of HIV infection. If commenced within 72 hours following exposure, PEP has been reported to be very effective in preventing replication and spread of the virus and therefore prevent acquisition of infection. PEP is recommended for exposures occurring in both occupational and non-occupational settings. The objectives of this study are to review the profile of patients and determine the reasons for accessing PEP services in our facility with a view to recommending evidence-based solutions and ultimately contributing to achieving zero transmission of HIV.   Continue reading “Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV: A 10-year review of data from a tertiary health facility in northcentral Nigeria”