PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is one of the most effective ways to prevent HIV. If taken consistently, PrEP reduces the risk of HIV infection from sex by about 99%, and by at least 74% for people who inject drugs. With oral and injectable options now available, HIV prevention is more accessible and discreet than ever.
If you live in Florida or New Jersey with high HIV rates, PrEP could be the key to protecting your health.
What Is PrEP?
PrEP is a prescription medication for people who are HIV-negative but at risk of exposure. It works by stopping HIV from taking hold in your body if you’re exposed. Options include:
- Oral PrEP: A once-daily pill you take at home
- Injectable PrEP: Given once every two months by a provider
Who Should Consider PrEP?
PrEP is recommended for people who:
- Have sex with partners of unknown or HIV-positive status
- Don’t use condoms consistently
- Share needles or use injectable drugs
- Plan pregnancy with a partner who is HIV-positive
- Live in high HIV prevalence areas in Florida & New Jersey
PrEP is especially important for people in:
- Newark
- Jersey City
- East Orange
- Paterson
- Elizabeth
- Irvington
- Trenton
- Atlantic City
- And counties like Essex, Hudson, Passaic, Mercer, and Camden
These communities face higher rates of new HIV diagnoses, making prevention tools like PrEP critically important.
How Effective Is PrEP?
PrEP is incredibly effective when taken as directed:
- About 99% effective at preventing HIV through sex
- About 74% effective for people who inject drugs
It does not protect against other STIs or pregnancy, so condoms are still encouraged for added protection.
Are There Side Effects?
Most people tolerate PrEP very well. Possible side effects are usually mild and include:
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Headache
- Minor changes in kidney or bone labs (monitored routinely)
Side effects often go away after the first few weeks.
How to Get Started on PrEP
Getting on PrEP is simple and confidential:
You can start PrEP in person or through telehealth, and it is often low-cost or free with insurance or assistance programs.
You don’t have to do this alone. Whether you need medical care, emotional support, or just someone to talk to, HIV Prevention & Awareness is here to help.
Get PrEP with HIV Prevention & Awareness
At HIV Prevention & Awareness, we help you access PrEP quickly, safely, and affordably. Our team provides inclusive, confidential HIV prevention care in Melbourne, FL, Kearny, NJ and across the state via telemedicine.
We offer:
- Same-day PrEP starts
- Oral and injectable PrEP options
- STI testing and follow-up
- Help with insurance or medication assistance
Take the first step toward a healthier future today.
- 📍 Visit us in Melbourne, FL & Kearny, NJ
- 💻 Telehealth appointments available across FL & NJ
- 🌐 Learn more or schedule care at hugcares.org
- 📞 Call us at (321) 339-3424
