What is post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)?
PEP is the treatment given to people exposed to potentially or known rabid animals. Guidelines for PEP have been developed by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), and include one dose of rabies immune globulin, and a series of 5 doses of rabies vaccine given over a 28 day period. Rabies immune globulin is made up of antibodies to the rabies virus, and is injected into the site of the bite from the animal. The vaccine is administered in the muscle of the arm. There has never been a case of rabies in a person who has received PEP administered in accordance with the ACIP recommended guidelines.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) means treating people who may have been exposed to HIV with antiviral medication, in order to prevent infection from happening. PEP has been officially approved by many countries for use following occupational exposures, but has not yet been approved for use following unsafe sex or needle sharing. Nonetheless, many doctors in hospitals and private practice are prepared to offer treatment to patients following non-occupational risks.