PrEP Partner U=U Context — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyHIV MedicinePrEP Partner U=U ContextSCE Infectious Diseases

A 30-year-old woman with HIV (CD4 600, VL <50 on ART for 4 years) asks about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for her HIV-negative male partner. What is the recommendation?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — PrEP (Tenofovir DF/Emtricitabine daily or event-based for MSM) is available for HIV-negative partners; however, with U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable), the transmission risk from this patient is effectively ZERO — PrEP is an additional option for the partner's reassurance but is not medically necessary with sustained viral suppression

With U=U established (PARTNER trials), the HIV-negative partner of a virally suppressed PLWH has effectively zero risk of sexual HIV acquisition. PrEP is available through sexual health clinics for HIV-negative individuals at risk, but in the context of a serodifferent couple where the positive partner has sustained VL <50, PrEP adds negligible additional protection. It may be offered for psychological reassurance. The key message: the most effective prevention strategy is the positive partner's continued viral suppression on ART.

Reference: BHIVA/BASHH 2021 – PrEP; PARTNER 1&2; NICE 2024