Immediate measures

If there has been risk of infection, the danger of HIV transmission can be somewhat reduced using the following measures:

• After unprotected anal or vaginal sex (high risk): wash the penis with soap under running water. Pull back the foreskin and carefully wash the glans and the inner side of the foreskin (do not apply pressure to the mucous membrane).

• After semen has entered the mouth (low risk): spit it out straight away and rinse the mouth four to five times with water.

• If semen gets into the eyes (low risk): rinse with water.

• IMPORTANT: Do not rinse out the vagina or rectum. This could make it easier for HIV to enter the body.

Note: These immediate measures only slightly reduce the risk of infection. They cannot replace the protection offered by condoms, or PEP if necessary.