RHHD to expand PrEP program to Henrico and Cary Street clinics

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Richmond and Henrico and Health Districts (RHHD) are looking to expand their pre-exposure prophylaxis program (PrEP) to Henrico East Clinic and Cary Street Clinic.

PrEP is a medication that reduces a person's chances of contracting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) which can cause immunodeficiency syndrome.

The program is not for adults and adolescents with HIV, but for those who have been exposed to HIV through sex or injection drug use.

In October 2024, RHHD restarted its new patient intake PrEP intake and now offers PrEP services at its Henrico East Clinic at 1400 N. Laburnum Ave. and its Cary Street Clinic at 400 E. Cary St.

PrEP may also be an option for pregnant people and their babies to protect them from contracting HIV while trying to pregnant, during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, however, they should discuss with their doctor if PrEP is right for them.

"We have the tools, and we have to get people to use them. Education helps people overcoming barriers that prevent people from taking their medication," said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts PrEP Coordinator Bernard Stackhouse.

If any other Virginia residents want to know if PrEP is right for them they should contact the RHHD PrEP team at 804-664-2125. For more information about HIV testing in Virginia visit the VDH resource connections page.