Within 72 hours? Contact a healthcare provider, urgent care clinic or emergency department now and ask about PEP. CDC says PEP must be started within 72 hours after a possible HIV exposure, and every hour counts.

What is PEP?

PEP stands for post-exposure prophylaxis. It is HIV prevention medication used after a possible exposure. CDC describes PEP as an emergency option rather than a substitute for ongoing prevention.

Do I need to wait for an HIV test result first?

No. If PEP is indicated, CDC clinical guidance says the first dose should not be delayed while waiting for rapid HIV blood-test results. A clinician will decide whether PEP is appropriate based on the exposure and your medical history.

What types of exposure should I discuss with a clinician?

Examples can include a sexual exposure, condom failure, shared injection equipment, sexual assault, or blood/body-fluid contact involving mucous membranes or non-intact skin. Whether PEP is recommended depends on the specific exposure.

Where can I ask about PEP in Palm Beach County?

The independent Wellington provider linked from Get Tested PB lists PEP among its services. Other options include urgent care, emergency departments and public-health resources. If you are close to the 72-hour cutoff, prioritize the fastest appropriate medical option rather than waiting for a preferred appointment.

What happens after PEP starts?

CDC says PEP is taken daily for 28 days. Follow-up HIV testing and other care may be recommended. If HIV exposure could happen repeatedly, ask whether PrEP may make sense after the PEP course.

Find an Appointment → PrEP vs PEP

Sources & medical references

Health information on Get Tested PB is written for general education and cross-checked against public-health sources. It is not individualized medical advice.