The COVID19 outbreak means we need to change the way we deliver some of our Chalmers services.
As we rebuild our services we still have to restrict the number of people we can see in person. If you are already taking PrEP you may already have a phone PrEP appointment. If not, you CAN still speak to us about getting PrEP supplies if you need them -book an appointment for a call back consultation here.
PrEP Postal Testing Kit
We are offering people on PrEP routine STI and HIV testing using self-taken samples at home. You take swabs and a urine sample, just as when you attend the clinic, as well as a finger prick sample of blood to send to the laboratory for your HIV and syphilis tests. We can send you a self-taken sample kit following your PrEP appointment by phone.
Here are the instructions on how to take your samples click here and a video (see below) on how to take your blood sample.
We are not yet offering appointments for people to start on PrEP, but we hope to restart soon. If you would like to book an appointment to discuss starting PrEP please call 0131 536 1138. We’ll add you to the waiting list.
Although many people are meeting new partners as COVID restrictions relax, you may still fell you want to avoid having new sexual partners just now. If so, you may decide you don’t need to take PrEP at the moment. Or if you can, you may be considering taking PrEP On Demand instead of daily. See HIV Scotland’s FAQs on PrEP and COVID19 for information on this:
https://www.hiv.scot/Pages/FAQs/Category/prep-coronavirus
If you do decide to stop PrEP, make sure you know how to stop and restart safely; see the prep in Scotland guide for a reminder: http://i-base.info/prep-in-scotland-guide/
For information on avoiding COVID19 infection. Check the NHS Inform website https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/coronavirus-covid-19.
You should also contact the service if you notice possible symptoms of any other sexually transmitted infection (e.g. penile or rectal discharge, genital or peri-anal ulcers, penile, testicular or rectal discomfort). Book an appointment for a call back consultation here.
Remember PREP will not change the risk of you contracting COVID19 risk or its severity. PREP only reduces the risk of you contracting HIV.