Neighborhood United Against Drugs (NUAD) has devoted more than two decades to the fight to prevent and treat HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. This summer it has resumed its partnership with the Colours Organization to promote “PrEP” and “PEP” approaches to preventing HIV.
According to founder and President Joe Purnell, “The PrEP” component emphasizes Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, taking an antiretroviral medicine before being potentially exposed to HIV. Taking this easy, sensible precaution has been shown to reduce HIV infection by up to 92 percent in people who engage in high-risk behaviors.”
‘“PEP” refers to Post-Experience Prophylaxis,” continued Purnell who operates with his team from the NUAD offices at 5214 Woodland Avenue. “Assuming a person is HIV negative when possibly exposed to the infection, the PEP can stop HIV before it affects the body – provided one starts taking the medication within 72 hours of the exposure!”
For more information, phone NUAD at 215-724-7430 or visit: www.uac.org/partners/neighborhood-united-against-drugs
