Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is short-term antiretroviral treatment to reduce the likelihood of HIV infection after potential exposure, either occupationally or through sexual intercourse.

The individual must immediately seek medical attention after potential exposure.

Treatment is only effective within 72 hours of exposure.

This is a new influenza virus infecting humans. The virus is spread  the same as seasonal flu. Flu germs spread from person-to-person through sneezing and coughing by those people already infected. Sometimes people may get infected infected by touching something with flu viruses on it such as tissues of an infected person then touching their mouth or nose.

Signs of swine flu are flu-like including; fever,cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat and runny nose, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhoea.

For more information contact www.nicd.ac.za or NICD helpline on 0861-364 232

Individuals are recommended to seek medical attention should they suspect contracting this virus.