UK government backing: Chief Medical Officer’s letter

In April 2006, three months after the non-occupational guidelines were first issued, all primary care and hospital trusts in the UK were sent a letter by the Chief Medical Officer, Sir Liam Donaldson, asking them to make sure that PEP against HIV infection through sexual exposure was routinely available in their areas.1 In his letter, Donaldson said:

“I would…ask you to ensure that PEP is part of the spectrum of sexual health services for your local populations.

“Provision of PEP for non-occupational exposure is not a replacement for evidence-based HIV health promotion, but it can have a contribution to make in preventing transmission of HIV.

“I would be grateful if you could bring this advice to the attention of your…clinical and public health teams so that they can take any necessary action to safeguard the health of your local population.”

However Donaldson reiterated the 72-hour limit for PEP, saying that “after 72 hours it is unlikely to be effective,” which most health authorities will take as a limit to prescription.

References

  1. Donaldson Sir Liam Improving the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. 'Dear Colleague' letter, 6 April, 2006
This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.
Community Consensus Statement on Access to HIV Treatment and its Use for Prevention

Together, we can make it happen

We can end HIV soon if people have equal access to HIV drugs as treatment and as PrEP, and have free choice over whether to take them.

Launched today, the Community Consensus Statement is a basic set of principles aimed at making sure that happens.

The Community Consensus Statement is a joint initiative of AVAC, EATG, MSMGF, GNP+, HIV i-Base, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, ITPC and NAM/aidsmap
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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.