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      Together, we can help end the HIV epidemic in America

      Two unknown subjects holding hands.

      The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched Ending the HIV Epidemic, a bold plan to reduce new HIV infections in America by 90% by 2030. CVS Health® can help people access testing and preventive medications, as well as treatments and support for those living with HIV.

      Testing

      Know your HIV status. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. For those with risk factors, the CDC recommends getting tested at least once a year. People who test positive can get on treatment to improve their own health and prevent transmitting the virus to others.

      What you can do:

      A pen hovers over the HIV testing section of a virology form.

      Preventive medication

      CVS Health has donated PrEP prescription dispensing services through its partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, as part of the Ready, Set, PrEP program. Those eligible can have PrEP prescriptions filled through CVS Pharmacy® for free. PrEP is available to those who are eligible at no out-of-pocket cost.

      PrEP is a prevention strategy for people who are at risk of contracting HIV and involves taking medicine to lower the chances of being infected. PrEP can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV through sexual contact by about 99% and via infected needles by at least 74%.

       

      CVS Health has donated PrEP prescription dispensing services through its partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, as part of the Ready, Set, PrEP program. Those eligible can have PrEP prescriptions filled through CVS Pharmacy® for free. PrEP is available to those who are eligible at no out-of-pocket cost.

      PEP means taking a short course of HIV medicines within 72 hours of possible exposure to HIV to prevent becoming infected by the virus. PEP should only be used in emergency situations and is not meant for regular use by people who may be exposed to HIV frequently. People who are HIV-negative and think they may have been recently exposed to HIV should talk to their health care provider or an emergency room doctor about PEP right away.

      A pharmacist stands at the register and explains the prescription to a client.

      Treatment

      Undetectable means un-transmittable, and CVS Specialty® helps ensure people get their medications on time and conveniently. CareTeams, led by specially trained nurses and pharmacists, are also available to help manage side effects and answer medication-related questions by phone or through secure messaging.

      What you can do:

      A circle of people extending their hands to the middle to create a hand pile.
      Let's change the way we talk about HIV. Instead of saying "high-risk groups", say highly affected communities or key populations.

      Stigma

      Everyone can play a role in eliminating the stigma associated with HIV, HIV testing, and HIV prevention. One way to help is to tell at least one person you know that everyone should get an HIV test. Talk about condoms, PrEP, and HIV treatment, too, so that people can take action to protect themselves and their partners.