What is HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis?
This method involves taking antiretroviral medications to reduce the risk of HIV infection. With proper and regular use of PrEP, the likelihood of contracting HIV can be reduced by more than 90% during sexual contact.
Who is PrEP recommended for?
This method is recommended for individuals at increased risk of HIV infection, including:
- those who have difficulty consistently using condoms with non-regular partners;
- people with multiple sexual partners;
- members of vulnerable populations;
- individuals whose partners are HIV-positive, if the partner's viral load is unknown or not controlled.
How to access PrEP in Kyrgyzstan?
The procedure for obtaining PrEP is simplified and takes minimal time.
Step one. Contact the Republican Center, Bishkek City, or any regional center for the control of blood-borne viral hepatitis and HIV. You can also consult an infectious disease specialist at the Family Medicine Center or the General Practice Center in your area, as well as non-profit organizations engaged in HIV prevention.
Testing. Take a free rapid HIV test (PrEP is prescribed only if the test result is negative).
Consultation. The doctor will suggest a convenient regimen (daily or "on-demand" for certain groups).
Receiving medications. Medications are provided free of charge.
Cost of the service
The service is provided free of charge and confidentially in all regions of the country.
Important to know
PrEP does not replace the use of condoms, which still protect against most sexually transmitted infections and prevent unwanted pregnancies.
The medications used in PrEP cannot cause HIV and are safe under controlled medical supervision.
Regular HIV testing is a necessary component of the PrEP program.
The use of pre-exposure prophylaxis is part of international strategies aimed at reducing the number of new HIV cases and achieving public health goals.
Expanding access to PrEP contributes to:
- reducing the number of new HIV infections;
- access to medical care;
- reducing stigma and discrimination;
- protecting the health of the population as a whole.
Useful links
Official website of the Republican Center for the Control of Blood-Borne Viral Hepatitis and HIV: aidscenter.kg
Mobile application: “Health +” (available on Google Play).
In Kyrgyzstan, over 15,000 cases of HIV have been registered. More than 80 new cases are identified in the republic each month. Experts are concerned about the increasing share of virus transmission through sexual contact. The Ministry of Health also expresses concern about the rising number of HIV-positive individuals among migrants and foreigners.
