Introduction

Despite being a critical tool for HIV prevention, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) remains underutilized. To address this gap, WHO released updated PEP guidelines in July 2024, focusing on expanding access through community delivery and task-sharing. This webinar explores these new guidelines, shares insights from a recent PEP meeting, and examines practical implementation considerations.  

Objectives:

• Disseminate the report of the i2i PEP & PrEP meeting held in June 2024
• Share updates to the PEP Guidelines
• Considerations on PEP Implementation Guidelines
• Country experience on integration of PEP service delivery

Summary

The webinar, expertly facilitated by Yvette Raphael, began by emphasising the importance of PEP and the need for increased accessibility and early intervention.  

Matteo Prochazka (WHO) presented the updated WHO guidelines, highlighting the critical need for early intervention and discussing innovative approaches, such as community delivery and task-sharing, to make PEP more accessible.  

Njambi Njuguna (FHI 360) provided valuable context for the PEP template guidelines, focusing on key aspects like eligibility, speed of provision, and the crucial link between PEP and PrEP. She also introduced the PEP resource package to support those using PEP.  

Ayesha Ishmail (SSLN-i2i)  shared insights from a June PEP meeting, shedding light on the barriers to PEP access, including lack of awareness, insufficient training, and social stigma. She presented key recommendations to improve accessibility and shared compelling research findings.  

Dr. Thato Chidarikire (WHO, South Africa) brought a country-level perspective, focusing on South Africa's experience with PEP and PrEP integration. She highlighted how South Africa is working to make PEP a standard part of healthcare services.  

The webinar concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, with Yvette Raphael facilitating insightful discussions between the audience and presenters. She closed by thanking the presenters and highlighting key takeaways on making PEP a readily available choice for HIV prevention

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