I had unprotected oral sex 7 days ago with someone who said they have a low CD4 count, so I am worried they might be HIV positive. I started PEP at around 69 to 70 hours after the incident and have been taking it for 4 days. Now, I have symptoms like intermittent fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, rash, and joint pain (especially in the knees). Are these symptoms due to HIV infection or side effects of the medicine? My initial test was negative, when should I get tested again?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Hema Pratima

General Practitioner

MBBS
Fellowship in Diabetes Mellitus
9+ Yrs

Consult Now

Symptoms likely from PEP (fatigue, rash, nausea). True acute HIV symptoms take 2 to 4 weeks. Continue PEP fully. Test at Day 28, 6 weeks, and 3 months. Avoid unsafe contact during this window. Negative tests after 3 months are conclusive.

Dr. Hema Suggests...

Take a HIV DUO (ANTIGEN AND ANTIBODY) Test

Book HIV DUO (ANTIGEN AND ANTIBODY) Test

Answered 04/09/2025

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