HIV Prevention & Treatment
HIV is most commonly spread through sexual intercourse, but can also spread through other means including sharing injection drug equipment, occupational exposure, and more.
Condom use, routine testing, and open communication with sexual partners are important parts of preventing HIV. There are also medication options available if you have a higher risk of contracting HIV or need treatment because of an exposure.
About PrEP
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication (a daily pill or periodic shot) to reduce a person’s chance of getting HIV. PrEP can be taken by anyone who is HIV negative and may have a higher risk of contracting HIV. Connect with a healthcare provider to learn more and talk about if PrEP is right for you.
You may consider PrEP if you:
- Have a sexual partner(s) who is HIV+
- Have sex without consistent use of condoms or other barrier methods
- Share needles, syringes, or other medical equipment for injections
Options for accessing PrEP
SHS
To access PrEP at SHS, schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment:
- Log on to Patient Connect
- On the left-hand side, select Appointments
- Select Schedule an Appointment
- Select Primary care/Medical (for physical concern, illness, or injury)
- Select Sexual Health
- Choose Male or Female
- Select PrEP
- Select one of the following two options:
- Select Initial. If you are not currently using PrEP and have not used PrEP before.
- Select Follow-up. If you need a prescription refill.
- Continue to schedule your appointment
Off Campus
There are many options for STI testing close to campus. Some include:
About PEP
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is an emergency medication taken to prevent HIV within 72 hours of a possible exposure. Talk with a healthcare provider about PEP if you think you have been exposed to HIV through sexual contact, needles, or bodily fluids such as blood. PEP is an emergency medication. You can get a PEP prescription through a primary care provider, an urgent care center, or an emergency room.
If you are at an ongoing risk for HIV exposure, connect with your healthcare provider about PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis).
Options for accessing PEP
SHS
Call us 24/7 at 617-353-3575 to speak with a healthcare provider about PEP.
We will suggest next steps, including whether to connect with SHS during business hours (if you call when SHS is closed), seek immediate care through an urgent care facility or emergency department, or other advice.
Send us a message through Patient Connect
Important: Patient Connect messages are only reviewed during normal business hours in SHS’ Primary Care department. On average, students receive a response and PEP prescription within 12 hours. However, it may take up to 24 hours. If you need to speak with a provider right away, call SHS 24/7 at 617-353-3575.
To send a message:
- Log on to Patient Connect
- On the left-hand side, select Messages
- Select New Message
- Select Primary care/Medical (for physical concern, illness, or injury)
- Select Ask a nurse a question, self-care, resources, medical advice, etc.
- Write a message to the nurse stating your need for PEP due to possible HIV exposure.
Off Campus
There are many options for STI testing close to campus. Some include: