This past year, 2024, has seen an alarming increase in new HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) cases, compared to previous years. Sri Lanka is known to have a low HIV epidemic, with less than 1% of the island nation affected by the virus. However, in the second quarter of the year alone (April to June 2024), 214 new cases of HIV have been reported, of which 28 cases have been reported amongst males aged 15 to 24-years old.

HIV is mainly transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse, but can also be transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy and labour, and by sharing contaminated IV needles. The virus attacks the body’s immune system and if left untreated, can lead to the development of AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), usually after 10-15 years. When AIDS develops, the body is at risk of getting severe infections and cancers, as there is a very weakened immune system.

HIV is currently not a curable infection, but with effective treatment options available, persons living with HIV can lead normal lives. Additionally, there are now new effective treatment regimes available, to prevent an HIV infection in individuals with a high risk for acquiring HIV, and also for people who may have been exposed to the virus.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis, most commonly referred to as PrEP, is a safe and highly effective preventive strategy for people who do not have HIV, but are at high risk of getting the virus. The treatment has to be taken both before and after sex, either daily or as needed (before exposure to HIV). It is important that prior to taking PrEP, you consult a doctor to understand how to use the medication and about the follow up care.

Post-exposure prophylaxis, most commonly referred to as PEP, is also a safe and highly effective preventative strategy for people who do not have HIV, but have had a possible exposure to the virus, in order to prevent them from acquiring the infection. The treatment should be taken as soon as possible after the exposure (within 72 hours) in order to prevent an HIV infection and should be continued for up to 28 days. Exposures can include condom breaking during sex, needlestick injuries during work, sharing equipment used to inject drugs and for cases of sexual assault. It is important to consult a doctor to understand how to use the medication and about the follow up HIV testing that is required.

It is important to remember that whilst PrEP and PEP are highly effective to protect against HIV if taken precisely and accurately, neither protects against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Using condoms is the only effective way to reduce the risk of getting other STIs.

Where to find PEP and PrEP in Sri Lanka:

• National STD/AIDs Control Programme (NSACP) – No. 29, De Saram Place, Colombo 10. Tel No: 0112 667 163

• Any of the 41 STI clinics island wide (nearest clinic can be found through the www.know4sure.lk website.

More information on access to PEP and PrEP can be found through the website www.know4sure.lk