HIV postexposure prophylaxis: Who should get it?

In most cases, HIV postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) is given only to healthcare workers if the settings make exposure to HIV-infected persons likely. Otherwise, it is usually deemed unnecessary. However, a decision for or against PEP is complicated. Occupational and nonoccupational exposure to HIV can produce fear, anxiety, and stress. Information on the exposure risk is frequently incomplete, the risk of infection is usually low, the degree of protection offered by PEP is not fully defined, and the potential for side effects from the medications is significant. This article distills the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's most recent guidance on HIV PEP.