HIV prevention

HIV prevention

You’re eligible for a PEP treatment if you’ve recently had sex where there was a chance of contracting HIV. Start treatment as soon as possible.

If you need to access PEP during office hours, just contact your General Practitioner (GP). The GP you see will then provide you with a referral letter to the Emergency Department of Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) where you can access PEP.
If it is after 5pm, during the weekend, or holidays, go to the doctor on call, Huisartsenpost (HAP). PEP will be covered by your Sociale Verzekeringsbank (SVB).

close up top view on blue medicine pill on teal background for medical concept

What is PEP?

PEP is a 4-week treatment with HIV drugs
PEP really reduces the chance that you’ll get HIV, but there’s no guarantee that you’ll remain HIV-negative
Start PEP treatment as soon as possible after potential exposure. Preferably within 2 hours of sex and no later than 72 hours afterwards
The sooner you start, the greater the chance of success

PrEP prevents HIV infection

PrEP is medication that makes sure you don’t get HIV. PrEP doesn’t protect against other STIs, only HIV. If there is an increased chance of you getting HIV, discuss with your doctor if PrEP is right for you.

What is PrEP?

PrEP is a pill that protects you from HIV. If you take PrEP in the right way, you won’t get HIV. Even if you have sex with someone who has HIV.
You can take your PrEP pill every day. Another option is to take the medication before and after sex. Discuss this with your doctor or nurse and choose what’s best for you.
PrEP is safe and has few side effects.
To access PrEP, visit your GP and get a referral to the specialist at Curaçao Medical Center (CMC).
Your doctor will keep an eye on your health while you’re taking PrEP.

How effective is PrEP?

PrEP is very effective in protecting you from HIV, as long as you take the pills in the right way and at the right time.

Is taking PrEP difficult?

The pill itself is small, and usually easy to swallow. You have to take it every day. Or whenever you have sex. If you don’t do that, it won’t protect you properly.

You can take PrEP in 2 different ways: 1 pill every day, or 4 pills when you have sex. Decide what’s easiest for you. You could also switch between methods.

Who is PrEP meant for?

PrEP is for people who may benefit from additional protection against HIV. Particularly if you engage in sex without a condom. Discuss with your doctor if PrEP is something you need to consider.

How do you get PrEP?

To access PrEP, talk to your GP about a referral to the specialist at Curaçao Medical Center (CMC).

What does PrEP cost?

The price of PrEP varies and is expensive. Sometimes up to 200 guilders for one month. It is currently not covered by your Sociale Verzekeringsbank (SVB)

Side effects

PrEP is safe to use. But just like any other medicine, it may have side effects. Especially when you start taking it. You can discuss this with your doctor.