Treatment of Occupational Exposure to HIV

Immediate measures

To use soap and water to wash any wound or skin that came into contact with suspected blood or fluid. Flush exposed mucous membrane with water. Do not apply caustic agents like bleach. Not to inject any antiseptic agents into the wound.

Post Exposure Prophylaxsis (PEP)

Only one agent Zidovudine is known to prevent the transmission of HIV in humans.However combination drugs are recommended. PEP is most effective if startd immediately. It should be initiated within 1-2 hours.

PEP regimens : for 28 days
Zidovudine 300 mg bd. +
Lamivudine 150 mg bd
If Exposure involved a high risk of transmission Indinavir 800 mg qid or Nelfinavir 750 mg tid should also be added.

Those with possible exposure should undergo followup HIV antibody testing at 6 weeks, 12 weeks and at 6 months.