Preventing HIV transmission requires a combination of biomedical, behavioral, and structural interventions.

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP):
PrEP involves taking HIV medications daily to prevent infection. When taken consistently, PrEP reduces the risk of HIV from sex by about 99%.

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP):
PEP is emergency medication taken within 72 hours after possible HIV exposure. It involves taking antiretroviral medications for 28 days.

Condom Use:
Consistent and correct condom use significantly reduces HIV transmission risk during sexual activity.

Treatment as Prevention:
People with HIV who maintain undetectable viral loads through treatment cannot transmit HIV sexually (U=U).

Harm Reduction:
For people who inject drugs, using sterile needles and syringes prevents HIV transmission through blood contact.

Testing and Counseling:
Regular HIV testing and counseling help people know their status and take appropriate prevention measures.

Mother-to-Child Prevention:
Antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy, delivery, and breastfeeding prevents HIV transmission from mother to child.

Combination Prevention:
Using multiple prevention strategies together provides the best protection against HIV transmission.