FAQ HIV PrEP & PEP Fact sheets

What Are Comorbidities?

Comorbidities are other health conditions a person has at the same time as a primary disease or condition.

For instance: If someone has one main illness, any additional illnesses they also live with are called comorbidities.

Example

A person living with HIV who also has:

Tuberculosis
Diabetes
Hypertension

These additional conditions above are comorbidities.

Why Comorbidities Matter

They can make illnesses more severe
They may complicate treatment
They can increase risk of complications or death
They often influence how doctors manage care and medication

Common Comorbidities in Public Health

HIV/AIDS + Tuberculosis
COVID-19 + Hypertension or Diabetes
Malaria + Anemia

What Are Condoms?

Condoms are protective barriers used during sexual activity to help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, and to help prevent unplanned pregnancy.

There are two main types of condoms:

External condoms (commonly called male condoms)
Internal condoms (commonly called female condoms)

When used correctly and consistently, condoms are highly effective.

Why Are Condoms Important?

Condoms help:

Reduce the risk of HIV transmission
Prevent many sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Help prevent unplanned pregnancy
Promote safer sexual practices

Condoms are one of the most accessible and affordable methods of protection.

How Do Condoms Work?

Condoms create a barrier that helps prevent the exchange of bodily fluids during sexual activity. This reduces the risk of HIV, STIs, and pregnancy.

What Types of Condoms Are Available?

External Condoms
External condoms are worn over the penis before sexual contact. They are commonly made from:

Latex
Polyurethane
Polyisoprene

Internal Condoms
Internal condoms are inserted into the vagina before sexual activity. They provide protection by lining the inside of the vagina and creating a barrier.

Are Condoms Effective?

Yes. When used correctly and consistently, condoms are highly effective in reducing the risk of:

HIV
Many sexually transmitted infections
Unplanned pregnancy

Effectiveness may decrease if condoms are used incorrectly or inconsistently.

How Should Condoms Be Used?

To use condoms correctly:

Check the expiry date
Open the package carefully
Use a new condom for every sexual act
Put the condom on before sexual contact begins
Follow instructions carefully
Dispose of used condoms safely after use

What Can Cause Condoms to Break or Fail?

Condoms may fail if:

They are expired
They are damaged during opening
They are stored improperly
Oil-based products are used with latex condoms
They are used incorrectly
They are reused

Using condoms properly helps improve effectiveness.

Can Condoms Be Used Together With Other HIV Prevention Methods?

Yes. Condoms can be used together with:

HIV PrEP
HIV treatment (ART)
Regular HIV testing
Other sexual and reproductive health services

Using multiple prevention methods can provide additional protection.

Are There Side Effects to Using Condoms?

Most people use condoms safely without problems. Some individuals may experience:

Latex allergies
Mild irritation
Discomfort if the wrong size or type is used

NB: Non-latex condom options are available for people with latex allergies.

How Should Condoms Be Stored?

Condoms should be stored:

In a cool, dry place
Away from direct sunlight
Away from sharp objects

Improper storage may damage condoms and reduce effectiveness.

Why Is Condom Use Important for HIV Prevention?

Condoms remain one of the most effective and affordable ways to help prevent HIV transmission, other sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy when used correctly and consistently.

Where Can I Get More Information or Support?

For more information on HIV prevention, sexual health, and condom use, contact WAAF-IHCC to speak with a qualified healthcare professional. Feel free to walk into any WAAF’s offices within our opening hours to get free condoms.

What is Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy (TPT)?

Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy (TPT) is treatment given to people who are at risk of developing active tuberculosis (TB) disease. TPT helps prevent inactive TB infection from becoming active TB disease. TPT is especially important for people living with HIV (PLHIV), because HIV weakens the immune system and increases the risk of developing active TB.

Why is TPT Important?

TB is one of the leading causes of illness and death among people living with HIV. Without prevention, people with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop active TB disease after being exposed to TB bacteria.

TPT helps to:

Reduce the risk of developing active TB disease
Protect the health of people living with HIV
Reduce TB-related complications and deaths
Support healthier and longer lives

Who Should Receive TPT?

TPT may be recommended for:

People living with HIV (PLHIV)
Close contacts of people with active TB
Children exposed to TB
People with weakened immune systems
Individuals at high risk of developing TB disease

A healthcare provider will assess whether TPT is appropriate before treatment begins.

How Does TPT Work?

TPT uses medication to kill or suppress TB bacteria before they can cause active disease. Before starting TPT, healthcare providers usually screen patients for signs and symptoms of active TB to ensure they do not already have TB disease.

Common Types of TPT

Different TPT regimens may be used depending on national guidelines and individual health needs. Common options include:

Isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT)
Short-course rifapentine-based therapy
Other TB preventive medication combinations

Your healthcare providers will determine the most suitable option.

Is TPT Safe?

TPT is generally safe and effective when taken as prescribed. Some people may experience mild side effects, including:

Nausea
Fatigue
Skin rash
Tingling in the hands or feet

NB: Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual symptoms while taking TPT.

Important Things to Remember

TPT does not replace routine TB screening during healthcare visits.
People on TPT should continue attending medical appointments.
Taking medication exactly as prescribed is important for effectiveness.
People living with HIV should continue taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) alongside taking TPT.

Can TB Be Prevented in Other Ways?

Yes. Additional ways to reduce the risk of TB include:

Early testing and treatment of TB
Good ventilation in homes and public spaces
Covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing
Wearing masks in high-risk settings when necessary
Maintaining a healthy immune system
Adhering to HIV treatment for people living with HIV

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Visit WAAF-IHCC or a healthcare facility near you if you experience symptoms such as: Persistent cough, Fever, Night sweats, Weight loss, Chest pain, Fatigue. Early detection and treatment save lives.

Learn More

For more information about TB, HIV, and prevention services, contact the WAAF clinic, International Health Care Centre (IHCC) in Haatso Accra to speak with a qualified healthcare professional or go to a health facility near you.

What is HIV?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, making it harder to fight infections and diseases. If untreated, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which is the most advanced stage of the infection.

Key Facts

HIV is not a death sentence—with proper and consistent treatment, people can live long, healthy lives despite living with it.
Anyone can get HIV, regardless of age, gender, race, background or social status
Many people living with HIV look and feel healthy, especially in early stages but they start to deteriorate if they are not on treatment correctly and consistently.
Early testing and treatment are critical

How is HIV Transmitted?

HIV is transmitted through:

Having unprotected sex with an infected person
Blood transfusions with infected blood
Sharing needles or sharp objects with an infected person
From an infected mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding

HIV is not spread through:

Hugging or shaking hands
Sharing a bed, food or utensils
Mosquito bites
Using the same toilet and bathroom

HIV Testing: Why It Matters

Because you can never know a person’s HIV status by looking at them, knowing your HIV status is the first step to protecting yourself and others.

HIV Testing is quick, safe, and confidential
Early detection allows you to start treatment immediately and finding out from the test result that you do not have HIV, empowers you to keep making healthier decisions
You can access testing at the WAAF clinic, the International Health Care Centre (IHCC) in Haatso Accra or any health facility near you.

Treatment & Living with HIV

There is currently no cure for HIV, but it can be managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART).

ART reduces the amount of HIV virus in the body
People Living with HIV and are on treatment can live normal, healthy lives
With proper treatment, HIV can become undetectable, meaning it cannot be passed on to others (U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable)

Prevention

Abstinence
Stay faithful to your partner

You can also reduce your risk of HIV by:

Using condoms correctly and consistently
Getting tested regularly like twice a year especially when you’re sexually active.
Avoiding sharing needles or sharp objects
Taking preventive medication such as PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) ahead of exposure or PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) within 72 hours (3 days) after exposure where available

HIV and Pregnancy

It is absolutely possible for Women living with HIV can give birth to HIV-free babies
Early treatment and proper care significantly reduces the risk of transmission.

Addressing Myths & Stigma

You cannot tell if someone has HIV just by looking at them
People living with HIV deserve respect, support, and inclusion like everyone else
Stigma and discrimination discourage people from seeking testing and treatment

Where to Get Help

WAAF & IHCC offers:

HIV testing and counselling
Treatment support and referrals where necessary
Community education and outreach
Free condoms and lubricants
Visit our offices and our clinic the International Health Care Centre in Haatso or contact us to learn more about available services.

Need Support?

If you have questions or need confidential support, please reach out to WAAF. Your health and wellbeing matter.

What Are PrEP and PEP?

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) are medicines used to help prevent HIV infection. Both are highly effective when taken correctly, but they are used in different situations.

What is PrEP?

PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. PrEP is medicine taken by HIV-negative individuals before possible exposure to HIV to reduce their risk of getting HIV. When taken consistently as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV transmission.

Who Can Benefit from PrEP?

PrEP may be recommended for people who:

Have a sexual partner living with HIV
Have multiple sexual partners
Do not consistently use condoms
Are at increased risk of HIV exposure
Inject drugs and share needles or syringes
Want additional protection against HIV

A healthcare provider can help determine if PrEP is suitable for an individual.

How Does PrEP Work?

PrEP works by preventing HIV from establishing infection in the body if exposure occurs. For PrEP to be effective, it must be taken consistently as prescribed.

Is PrEP Effective?

Yes. When taken correctly, PrEP greatly reduces the risk of getting HIV through sex or injection drug use. However, PrEP does not protect against:

Other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Unplanned pregnancy

Using condoms alongside PrEP provides additional protection.

Does Someone Need HIV Testing Before Starting PrEP?

Yes. A person must test HIV-negative before starting PrEP. Regular HIV testing and medical follow-up are also important while taking PrEP.

What Are Possible Side Effects of PrEP?

Most people tolerate PrEP well, but some may experience mild side effects such as:

Nausea
Headache
Fatigue
Stomach discomfort

However, these side effects often improve over time.

What is PEP?

PEP stands for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. PEP is emergency medicine taken after possible exposure to HIV to help prevent infection. PEP must be started as soon as possible after exposure.

When Should PEP Be Used?

PEP may be recommended after:

Unprotected sex
Condom breakage
Sexual assault
Needle-stick injuries
Sharing needles or syringes
Other possible HIV exposures

A healthcare provider should assess the situation immediately.

How Soon Should PEP Be Started?

PEP should be started within 72 hours (3 days) after possible HIV exposure.
The sooner PEP is started, the more effective it is.
PEP is usually taken for 28 days.

Is PEP Effective?

Yes. PEP can greatly reduce the risk of HIV infection if:

It is started quickly
Taken correctly
The full treatment course is completed

Does PEP Replace Regular HIV Prevention Methods?

No. PEP is meant for emergency situations and should not replace regular HIV prevention strategies such as:

Correct and consistent condom use
PrEP
Regular HIV testing
Safe injection practices

Can Someone Use PrEP and PEP Together?

No, PEP is used after a possible exposure, while PrEP is used before exposure for ongoing prevention. After completing PEP, some individuals may be advised to start PrEP if they remain at ongoing risk of HIV exposure.

Can Pregnant or Breastfeeding Individuals Use PrEP or PEP?

In many cases, yes. Healthcare providers can assess the safest and most appropriate options based on individual needs.

How Can HIV Be Prevented?

Ways to reduce the risk of HIV include:

Correct and consistent condom use
Taking PrEP if at ongoing risk
Using PEP after possible exposure
Regular HIV testing
Avoiding sharing needles or sharp objects
Adhering to HIV treatment for people living with HIV

Why Is Regular HIV Testing Important?

Regular HIV testing helps people:

Know their HIV status
Access treatment early if needed
Protect themselves and others
Make informed health decisions

Early diagnosis and treatment improve health outcomes.

Where Can I Get More Information or Support?

For more information on HIV prevention, testing, PrEP, and PEP services, contact the WAAF clinic, International Health Care Centre (IHCC) or speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and can lead to chronic liver disease if untreated.

Key Facts

Often has no symptoms in early stages
Many people are unaware they are infected
It is curable with modern treatment

Transmission

Contact with infected blood
Sharing needles or unsafe injections
Unsafe medical procedures
Less commonly through sexual contact

Symptoms

Often absent, but may include:

Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Jaundice (in later stages)

Prevention

Avoid sharing needles or sharp instruments
Ensure safe medical and cosmetic procedures
Screen blood before transfusion
Practice safe sex

Treatment

Direct-acting antiviral medications (can cure most cases)
Regular follow-up for liver health

When to Seek Care

If you are at risk or may have been exposed
For routine screening and early diagnosis

For more information, please call 0243362447 – WAAF’s onsite clinic the International Health Care Centre (IHCC) to speak to a professional health care worker.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can cause both short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) disease.

Key Facts

It is a major global health concern
It can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer
A safe and effective vaccine is available

Transmission

Contact with infected blood or body fluids
Unprotected sexual contact
Sharing needles or sharp objects
From mother to baby during childbirth

Symptoms

Many people have no symptoms, but some may experience:

Fatigue
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
Dark urine
Abdominal pain

Prevention

Get vaccinated
Practice safe sex (use condoms)
Avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes
Ensure safe blood transfusions

Treatment

Acute cases may resolve on their own
Chronic Hepatitis B can be managed with antiviral medications
Regular monitoring of liver health is important

When to Seek Care

If you think you’ve been exposed
If you experience symptoms
For routine screening, especially if at risk

What is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria.

Key Facts

Often has no symptoms
Can cause infertility if untreated
Easily treated with antibiotics

Transmission

Unprotected sexual contact
Mother-to-child transmission during birth

Symptoms

Abnormal discharge
Burning during urination
Lower abdominal pain

Prevention

Use condoms
Regular STI screening
Mutual monogamy (Staying faithful to your partner and vice versa)

Treatment

Antibiotics
Avoid sexual activity until treatment is complete

When to Seek Care

Get tested if sexually active or if exposed to an infected partner.

What is Gonorrhoea?

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrheoea.

Key Facts

It can affect both men and women
Many people have no symptoms
It is treatable with antibiotics

Transmission

Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex
From mother to baby during childbirth

Symptoms

Painful urination
Unusual discharge
Pelvic pain (in women)

Prevention

Use condoms correctly and consistently
Get tested regularly
Limit number of sexual partners

Treatment

Antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider
Partner treatment is important

When to Seek Care

If you suspect exposure or notice symptoms, get tested immediately.

What is Cholera?

Cholera is a diarrheal disease caused by contaminated food or water.

Key Facts

It can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation
It can be life-threatening if untreated
It is preventable and treatable

Causes and Transmission

Drinking contaminated water
Eating contaminated food
Poor sanitation and hygiene

Symptoms

Severe watery diarrhea
Vomiting
Dehydration

Prevention

Drink safe, treated water
Wash hands regularly
Practice good sanitation
Eat properly cooked food

Treatment

Immediate rehydration (oral rehydration salts or IV fluids)
Antibiotics in severe cases

When to Seek Care

Seek urgent care if there is severe diarrhea or signs of dehydration.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot properly control blood sugar (glucose) levels.

Key Facts

There are different types (Type 1, Type 2, and gestational)
Type 2 is the most common
It can be managed with proper care

Causes and Risk Factors

Family history
Overweight or obesity
Poor diet
Physical inactivity

Symptoms

Frequent urination
Excessive thirst
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue

Prevention

Maintain a healthy weight
Eat balanced meals
Exercise regularly
Limit sugar intake

Treatment

Lifestyle changes
Oral medications or insulin
Regular blood sugar monitoring

When to Seek Care

If you notice symptoms or have risk factors, get tested early.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension is a condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently high. It is often called the “silent killer” because it may not show symptoms.

Key Facts

Many people with hypertension do not feel sick
It can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure
It is common but manageable

Causes and Risk Factors

High salt intake
Obesity
Lack of physical activity
Stress
Alcohol and tobacco use
Family history

Symptoms

Often none, but severe cases may include:

Headaches
Dizziness
Blurred vision

Prevention

Reduce salt intake
Eat a balanced diet (fruits and vegetables)
Exercise regularly
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
Manage stress

Treatment

Lifestyle changes
Prescribed medications
Regular blood pressure monitoring

When to Seek Care

Check your blood pressure regularly and seek care if readings are consistently high.

What is Marburg Virus Disease?

Marburg is a severe and often fatal viral hemorrhagic fever.

Key Facts

Spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids
Has a high fatality rate
Requires urgent medical attention

Symptoms

Sudden fever
Severe headache
Vomiting and diarrhea
Bleeding in severe cases

What to Do

Seek immediate medical care
Avoid contact with infected persons
Report suspected cases to health authorities

Prevention

Avoid contact with bodily fluids
Use protective equipment when caring for patients with Marburg virus
Follow public health guidance

Where to Get Help

Contact WAAF’s clinic the International Health Care Centre (IHCC) in Haatso or emergency health services immediately if suspected.

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus belonging to the group of corona virus.

Key Facts

It spreads through respiratory droplets
Vaccination reduces severe illness
People with underlying conditions are at higher risk

Symptoms

Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath
Loss of taste or smell

Testing

Testing helps confirm infection and prevent spread.

Care

Most cases are mild and can be managed at home
Severe cases require medical attention

Prevention

Vaccination
Hand hygiene
Wearing masks in high-risk settings

Where to Get Help

WAAF and its clinic, the International Health Care Centre provides guidance and referrals.

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral disease that spreads through close contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated materials.

Key Facts

Mpox is usually mild but can be serious in some cases
It spreads through skin contact, bodily fluids, or respiratory droplets

Symptoms

Rash or skin lesions
Fever
Swollen lymph nodes
Headache and muscle aches

What to Do if You Suspect Mpox

Seek medical care immediately
Avoid close contact with others
Do not share personal items

Prevention

Avoid close contact with infected individuals
Practice good hygiene
Use protective measures when caring for persons with Mpox

Where to Get Help

Contact WAAF’s clinic the International Health Care Centre (IHCC) in Haatso Accra or your nearest health facility for guidance.

What is Malaria?

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

Key Facts

Common in many parts of Africa
Preventable and treatable
Children and pregnant women are most at risk

Symptoms

Fever
Chills
Headache
Vomiting
Body aches

Testing

Malaria can be confirmed with a simple blood test
Do not self-diagnose—get tested

Treatment

Treated with antimalarial medications
Early treatment prevents severe illness

Prevention

Sleep under insecticide-treated nets
Use mosquito repellents
Eliminate standing water around homes

Where to Get Help

Visit the WAAF clinic, International Health Care Centre in Haatso or a nearby health facility for testing and treatment.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix and is mainly caused by persistent infection with some strains of the human papilloma virus (HPV).

Key Facts

It is one of the most preventable cancers
Early detection saves lives
Women living with HIV are at a higher risk

Symptoms

Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Pelvic pain
Pain during sexual intercourse
Unusual vaginal discharge

NB: Early stages may have no symptoms

Screening

Regular screening (Pap smear or HPV testing) is key
Early detection allows for effective treatment

Prevention

HPV vaccination
Regular screening
Safe sexual practices like condom use

Why It Matters

Early action can prevent most cases of cervical cancer.

Where to Get Help

The WAAF clinic, International Health Care Centre in Haatso supports screening awareness and referrals. You can also visit any health facility to get screened.

What is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that mainly affect the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body.

Key Facts

TB is curable and treatable
TB of the lungs spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes
TB is more common among people with weakened immune systems, including those living with HIV

Symptoms

Persistent cough (lasting more than 2 weeks)
Chest pain
Coughing up blood
Fever and night sweats
Weight loss and fatigue

Testing & Diagnosis

TB testing is available at the WAAF clinic, the International Health Care Centre and other health
facilities
Early diagnosis helps prevent spread and complications and enhances good treatment outcome
Testing is especially important for people living with HIV

Treatment

TB is treated with a course of antibiotics over several months
It is important to complete the full treatment to get completely cured.
Stopping treatment without completing the full course treatment leads to drug-resistant TB

Prevention

Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing
Ensure good ventilation in your living spaces
Get tested early if you have symptoms
For people living with HIV (PLHIV), Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy (TPT) is used to help prevent
TB infection from developing into active TB disease. This is important because HIV weakens the
immune system, making PLHIV more vulnerable to developing TB.

Where to Get Help

WAAF’s clinic the International Health Care Centre in Haatso, Accra provides TB screening, referrals, and
support services.

FAQS

HIV PrEP & PEP Fact sheets

For more information on HIV prevention, testing, PrEP, and PEP services, contact the WAAF clinic, International Health Care Centre (IHCC) or speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

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WAAF Headquarters, Greater Accra

WAAF, Western Region Office

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For more information on HIV prevention, testing, PrEP, and PEP services, contact the
WAAF clinic, International Health Care Centre (IHCC) or speak with a qualified
healthcare professional.