Even after exposure, HIV infection can be prevented.

If you’re exposed to HIV, you may be able to prevent contracting the virus yourself by taking a cocktail of antiretroviral medications (ART) for 28 days. The treatment isn’t 100% effective, but it can be close if it’s started within 72 hours of exposure. You can get this treatment from your doctor, at the emergency room, and from HIV and urgent-care clinics.