When should HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) be started after exposure?

The correct choice indicates that HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) should ideally be started within 2 hours following potential exposure to the virus. Prompt initiation of PEP is crucial to its effectiveness in significantly reducing the risk of HIV infection.

The rationale for starting treatment as early as possible is rooted in the understanding of HIV transmission dynamics. The sooner PEP is administered, the more likely it is to prevent the virus from establishing a permanent infection in the body. Research shows that while PEP can be initiated within 72 hours (3 days) of exposure, its effectiveness diminishes the longer the interval between exposure and the commencement of the treatment.

Starting PEP within this 2-hour window maximizes the chances of preventing HIV infection and is a recommended practice in healthcare settings. It allows for a proactive approach to protect individuals from potential HIV exposure, underscoring the urgency of timely medical intervention in such scenarios.